There was risk, of course; a demand for evidence of my alleged investments, or a sudden order to realize a heavy sum at short notice, would bring the house about my ears.

But I did not anticipate this _contretemps_, and at the worst I had my twenty thousand dollars and could make myself scarce therewith.

These calculations were quite correct at the moment, but I upset them afterward by spending the dollars and by contracting a tie which made flight from Aureataland a distasteful alternative.
"Well, Mr.Martin," said the President, "do you agree ?" I still hesitated.

Was it a moral scruple?
Probably not, unless, indeed, prudence and morality are the same thing.
The President rose and put his hand on my shoulder.
"Better say yes.

I might take it, you know, and cause you to disappear--believe me, with reluctance, Mr.Martin.It is true I shouldn't like this course.