It was conceivable that Thatcher saw in the position of the map an adumbration of Bassett's higher political ambition, and that this had affected the capitalist unpleasantly.
Thatcher's manner was that of a man so secure in his own position that he could afford to trample others under foot if he liked.

It was--not to put too fine a point upon it--the manner of a bully.

His reputation for independence was well established; he was rich enough to say what he pleased without regard to the consequences, and he undoubtedly enjoyed his sense of power.
"I suppose I'm the only man in Indiana that ain't afraid of Mort Bassett," he announced casually.

"It's because Mort knows I ain't afraid of him that we get on so well together.

You've been with him long enough by this time to know that we have some interests together." Dan, with his fingers interlocked behind his head, nodded carelessly.