for don’t accept excuses—only results. I have told them everything was arranged.”
“Well, you were a little premature, weren’t you?”
“I don’t see why. I had the word of P.J. Madden. I believed—foolishly, perhaps—the old rumor that the word of Madden was never broken.”
The millionaire looked decidedly uncomfortable. “Well—I—er—of course I never break my word. When did you want to bring your people here?”
“It’s all arranged for Monday,” said the girl.
“Out of the question,” replied Madden. “But if you could postpone it a few days—say, until Thursday.” Once more he looked at Eden. “Our business should be settled by Thursday,” he added.
“Unquestionably,” agreed Eden, glad to help.
“Very well,” said Madden. He looked at the girl, and his eyes were kindly. He was no Thorn. “Make it Thursday, and the place is yours. I may not be here then myself, but I’ll leave word to that effect.”
“Mr. Madden, you’re a dear,” she told him. “I knew I could rely on you.”
With a disgusted look at his employer’s back, Thorn went out.
“You bet you can,” said Madden, smiling pleasantly. He was melting fast. “And the record of P.J. Madden is intact. His word is as good as his bond—isn’t that so?”
“If any one doubts it, let him ask me,” replied the girl.
“It’s nearly lunch time,” Madden said. “You’ll stay?”
“Well—I—really, Mr. Madden—”
“Of course she’ll stay,” Bob Eden broke in. “She’s eating at a place in Eldorado called the Oasis, and if she doesn’t stay, then she’s just gone and lost her mind.”
