But Mahaffy, keen and anxious, with doubt in every glass he drained, a lurking devil to grin at him above the rim, could see only the end of their brief hour of welcome.

This made the present moment as bitter as the last.
"I have a theory, Solomon, that I shall be handsomely supported by my new friends.

They'll snatch at the opportunity." "I see 'em snatching, Mr.Price," said Mahaffy grimly.
"That's right--go on and plant doubt in my heart if you can! You're as hopeless as the grave side!" cried the judge, a spasm of rage shaking him.
"The thing for us to do--you and I, Price--is to clear out of here," said Mahaffy.
"But what of the boy ?" "Leave him with his friends." "How do you know Miss Malroy would be willing to assume his care?
It's scandalous the way you leap at conclusions.

No, Solomon, no--I won't shirk a single irksome responsibility," and the judge's voice shook with suppressed emotion.

Mahaffy laughed.