"I must have a junior, with my increasing practice, and you are the junior I want.

We are old and tried friends; we have worked together; we like and trust one another, and you are the best man for the job that I know.
Come; I am not going to take a refusal.

This is an ultimatum." "And what is the alternative ?" I asked with a smile at his eagerness.
"There isn't any.

You are going to say yes." "I believe I am," I answered, not without emotion; "and I am more rejoiced at your offer and more grateful than I can tell you.

But we must leave the final arrangements for our next meeting--in a week or so, I hope--for I have to be back in an hour, and I want to consult you on a matter of some importance." "Very well," said Thorndyke; "we will leave the formal agreement for consideration at our next meeting.