s wot GETS me! Why, the first day I came here on business, the
old man froze me so that I couldn't thaw a deposit out of my pocket. It
chills me to think of it.

Oakhurst (hastily). I suppose I am accustomed to him. But come, Harry:
let me warm you. (Opens door of safe L., and discovers cupboard,
decanter, and glasses.)

York (laughing). By Jove! under the old man's very nose. Jack, this is
like you. (Takes a drink.) Well, old boy, this is like old times. But
you don't drink?

Oakhurst. No, nor smoke. The fact is, Harry, I've taken a year's pledge.
I've six days still to run; after that (gloomily), why (with a reckless
laugh), I shall be Jack Oakhurst again.

York. Lord! to think of your turning out to be anybody's son,
Jack!--least of all, HIS! (Pointing to chair.)

Oakhurst (laughing recklessly). Not more strange than that I should find
Harry York, the spendthrift of Poker Flat, the rich and respected Mr.
York, produce merchant of San Francisco.

York. Yes; but, my boy, you see I didn't strike it--in a rich father. I
gave up gambling, married, and settled down, saved my money, invested a
little here and there, and--worked for it, Jack, damn me,--worked for it
like a damned horse!

Oakhurst (aside). True, this is not work.

York. But that ain't my business with ye now, old boy: it's this. You've
had some trials and troubles in the bank lately,--a defalcation of
agents one day, a robbery next. It's luck, my boy, luck! but ye know
people will talk. You don't mind my sayin' that there's rumors 'round.
The old man's mighty unpopular because he's a saint; and folks don't
entirely fancy you because you used to be the reverse. Well, Jack, it
amounts to 'bout this: I've withdrawn my account from Parkinson's, in
Sacramento, and I've got a pretty heavy balance on hand--nigh on two
hundred thousand--in bonds and certificates here; and if it will help
you over the rough places, old boy, as a deposit, yer it is (drawing
pocket-book.)

Oakhurst (greatly affected, but endeavoring to conceal it). Thank you,
Harry, old fellow--but--

York (quickly). I know: I'll take the risk, a business risk. You'll
stand by me all you can, old boy; you'll make it pay all you can; and if
you lose it--why--all right!

Oakhurst (embarrassed). As a deposit with Morton & Son, drawing two per
cent monthly interest--

York. Damn Morton & Son! I'll back it with Jack Oakhurst, the man I
know.

Oakhurst (advancing slowly). I'll take it, Harry