He now gave his attention to urging on old Maje’s paces, fearing to mar a good matter by speaking a word too much. Would not Mrs. Chatford give him a little credit for “gumption” after this? Had he not managed the affair with the sagacity of an accomplished politician? He began to wonder a little at the stupidity he had shown on some previous occasions, a man of his diplomatic ability; thinking particularly of the manner in which he had given Kate’s half-dollar to the jeweller, instead of Jack’s.