He let it be known that he was no longer afraid, and from the moment Mooie was out of danger his attitude was such that more than once Kent would have taken keen pleasure in kicking him from the room.

Also, from the hour he was safely in charge of Doctor Cardigan's place, Mercer began to swell with importance.

Kent saw the new danger and began to humor him.
He flattered him.

He assured him that it was a burning shame Cardigan had not taken him into partnership.

He deserved it.