So he dismissed her from his thoughts and continued his
search for a number seventeen shirt, and collar to match. But he
did not fare well. He found Mr. Stein in the smoking-room, but
discovered that his size was fifteen and a half; and there was no
one else to whom he could apply.
For a second time Stein importuned him to buy a chance on the
ship's run, and, failing in this, suggested that they have a drink
together. Had not Kirk realized in time his inability to
reciprocate he would have accepted eagerly, for his recent
dissipation had left him curiously weak and nervous. At the cost
of an effort, however, he refused. It was a rare experience for
him to refuse anything, being, like many indolent youths, an
accomplished guest. In fact, he was usually as ready to accept
favors as he was carelessly generous when he happened to be in
funds. The technique of receiving comes to some people naturally;
others cannot assume an obligation without giving offence. Kirk
was one of the former. Yet now he felt a sudden, strange hesitancy
and a self-consciousness that made graceful acquiescence
impossible. He continued firm, therefore, even when Stein gibed at
him good-humoredly:
"I suppose it's against your principles to drink, as well as to
gamble?"
"Exactly.
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