I am half inclined to do so even _without_ a retainer.

Mind, I haven't yet said that I _will_ take it." "I prefer to regulate any possible indebtedness in advance," said Gatewood.
"As you wish," replied the older man, smiling.

"In that case, suppose you draw your check" (he handed Gatewood a fountain pen as the young man fished a check-book from his pocket)--"your check for--well, say for $5,000, to the order of Keen & Co." Gatewood met his eye without wincing; he was in for it now; and he was always perfectly game.

He had brought it upon himself; it was his own proposition.

Not that he would have for a moment considered the sum as high--or any sum exorbitant--if there had been a chance of success; one cannot compare and weigh such matters.