R.R. as assistant to Runnels--the Master of Transportation,
you know. I like the work and expect to be promoted. I have a
little money--just enough to give me a fresh start if I should
lose out here, and--oh, well, I'm poor but honest; I suppose
that's about the size of it." He paused, vaguely conscious that he
had not done himself justice. What else was there to say about
Kirk Anthony? Then he added as an afterthought:
"My father is a railroad man, in Albany, New York."
"In what capacity is he employed, may I ask?" said Garavel,
showing something like real interest.
Kirk grinned at this, and, seeing a copy of Bradstreet's on the
banker's table, turned to his father's name, which he pointed out
rather shamefacedly. Senor Garavel became instantly less distant.
"Of course the financial world knows Darwin K. Anthony," said he.
"Even we modest merchants of the tropics have heard of him; and
that his son should seek to win success upon his own merits is
greatly to his credit. I congratulate you, sir, upon your
excellent progress."
"I hope to make good," said Kirk, simply, "and I think I can."
Then he flushed and hesitated as a realization of the situation
swept over him. Could he gain the favor of Chiquita's father under
false pretences? Surely it was only just that a man should stand
upon his own merits, and yet--it didn't seem quite right.
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