d _I_ haven't
resigned. So you see what manner of man I am," he concluded defiantly.

"You mean a coward? I don't think it."

"I wish I were sure!" burst out Banneker.

"Ah? That's hard, when the soul doesn't know itself. Is it money?" The
crisp, clear voice had softened to a great kindliness. "Are you in debt,
my boy?"

"No. Yes; I am. I'd forgotten. That doesn't matter."

"Apparently not." The lawyer's heavy brows went up, "More serious than
money," he commented.

Banneker recognized the light of suspicion, comprehension, confirmation
in the keen and fine visage turned upon him. Enderby continued:

"Well, there are matters that can be talked of and other matters that
can't be talked of. But if you ever feel that you want the advice of a
man who has seen human nature on a good many sides, and has learned not
to judge too harshly of it, come to me. The only counsel I ever give
gratis to those who can pay for it"--he smiled faintly--"is the kind
that may be too valuable to sell."

"But I'd like to know," said Banneker slowly, "why you don't think me a
yellow dog for not resigning."

"Because, in your heart you don't think yourself one. Speaking of that
interesting species, I suppose you know that your principal is working
for the governorship."

"Will he get the nomination?"

"Quite possibly. Unless I can beat him for it. I'll tell you privately I
may be the opposing candidate. Not that the party loves me any too much;
but I'm at least respectable, fairly strong up-State, and they'll take
what they have to in order to beat Marrineal, who is forcing himself
down their throats."

"A pleasant prospect for me," gloomed Banneker. "I'll have to fight
you."

"Go ahead and fight," returned the other heartily. "It won't be the
first time."

"At least, I want you to know that it'll be fair fight."

"No 'Junior-called-me-Bob' trick this time?" smiled Enderby.

Banneker flushed and winced. "No," he answered. "Next time I'll be sure
of my facts. Good-night and good luck. I hope you beat us."

As he turned the corner into Fifth Avenue a thought struck him. He made
the round of the block, came up the side of the street opposite, and met
a stroller having all the ear-marks of the private detective. To think
of a man of Judge Enderby's character being continuously "spotted" for
the mean design of an Ely Ives filled Banneker with a sick fury. His
first thought was to return and tell Enderby. But to what purpose? Afte