The captain, who had risen too, bowed vaguely at the introduction, but Barker extended his hand frankly.

"I found Stacy busy," he said in answer to his wife, "but he is coming to dine with us to-night." "If you mean Jim Stacy, the banker," said Captain Heath, brightening into greater ease, "he's the busiest man in California.

I've seen men standing in a queue outside his door as in the old days at the post-office.

And he only gives you five minutes and no extension.

So you and he were partners once ?" he said, looking curiously at the still youthful Barker.
But it was Mrs.Barker who answered, "Oh yes! and always such good friends.