Here, what is it ?" "That's just what I can't tell you," said Derrick, colouring under the sharp, gimlet-like eyes.
Mr.Bloxford scratched his hairless head and looked despairingly at Derrick.

From the first he had expected that there were grave reasons for the young man's presence in the company; a man of Derrick's breeding does not join a travelling circus for the mere fun of it.
"Some trouble, I suppose, eh?
Got to clear out?
I'm sorry, I'm sorry.
Look here, can't something be done--can't it be squared?
if it's money--well, say the amount"-- he threw out his chest again--"and it shall be forthcoming.

I'll own up that I've taken a fancy to you, that I'd plank down a biggish sum to keep you with me.

No ?"--for Derrick had shaken his head.
"Thank you with all my heart," said Derrick.

"I must clear out without any fuss.