human
Sargent, a few weeks ago you offered to do me a service. Can I enlist you in a cause that interests me deeply, if it will also be of great advantage to you?
gpt
Yes, sir; you can ask me nothing that I would refuse to do.
human
That is well spoken. But first, I wish you to swear you will not betray my confidence.
gpt
I swear that, whatever you ask of me, no living person shall ever learn its nature.
human
To begin with, you know I do not like Alden.
gpt
Yes, sir; I found that out the first day I entered the bank.
human
I have reason to know that Alden does not like you, Sargent.
gpt
I am also aware of that.
human
You are a shrewd fellow.
gpt
Not very, sir, but any one can see Alden has no confidence in me. A day never passes without his showing it.
human
How would you like his place, Sargent?
gpt
It would be the happiest day of my life when I could displace the fellow by stepping into his shoes.
human
Would you be willing to take any chances to accomplish that very thing?
gpt
Yes, sir, I would do anything--except resort to bloodshed--to become cashier.
human
I have a reason for wishing to get rid of him.
gpt
Yes, sir, I think I know why.
human
Ah, you do? Why is it?
gpt
You do not want him for a son-in-law.
human
That's it, exactly. Now how can we get rid of him? Have you any ideas on the subject?
gpt
I have not thought of it, but will carry out any plan you may suggest. Don't be afraid to trust me, for I hate the fellow even worse than you do. He has lorded it over me the past few weeks, and I would like to see him disgraced.
human
Well, have you any idea you could arrange a trap for him to fall into?
gpt
Yes, yes; a job could be put up that would send him to prison and, blast him! I would be glad to boss it.
human
What can you do and when can you do it?
gpt
With your assistance and co-operation I can fix a job making him a defaulter,
human
Go to work at once. Keep me informed of your movements. Be discreet, and report your plans to me here to-morrow evening. Your reward for the faithful performance of the work shall be the cashiership.
gpt
I will crush the fellow, and glory in his downfall. I wonder, though, if some day the Senator won't put somebody up to crushing me in the same way?