"That's because you don't know Ronicky Doone, John." "I'm getting to know him, however," said the master.

"And, before I'm done, I hope to know him very well indeed." "Well, he has a persuasive tongue." "I think I noticed that for myself." "And, when he told me how poor Bill Gregg had come clear across the continent--" "No wonder you were touched, my dear.

New Yorkers won't travel so far, will they?
Not for a girl, I mean." "Hardly! But Ronicky Doone made it such a sad affair that I promised I'd go across and see Bill Gregg." "Not in his room ?" "I knew you wouldn't let him come to see me here." "Never presuppose what I'll do.

But go on--I'm interested--very.

Just as much as if Ronicky Doone himself were telling me." She eyed him shrewdly, but, if there were any deception in him, he hid it well.