For your sake I'd let the lad go, God knows, and there's my han' upon it, but as I said, that lies with Sir Archibald." The old friends shook hands in silence.
"Thank ye, Tom, thank ye," said Mr.Rae; "I knew it." "But harken to me, ye'll no' move Sir Archibald, for on this particular point he's quite mad.

He'd prosecute the Duke of Argyll, he would.

But two days are yours, Sandy.

And mind with Sir Archibald ye treat his Bank with reverence! It's a National Institution, with National obligations, ye ken ?" Mr.Sheratt's wink conveyed a volume of meaning.

"And mind you, Rae," here Mr.Sheratt grew grave, "I am trusting you to produce that lad when wanted." "I have him in safe keeping, Tom, and shall produce him, no fear." And with that the two old gentlemen parted, loyal to a lifelong friendship, but loyal first to the trust of those they stood pledged to serve; for the friendship that gives first place to honour is the only friendship that honourable men can hold.
Mr.Rae set off for his office through the drizzling rain.