Dent knew Higgins well,
and was perfectly aware that his virtue was not above contamination.
Higgins had, in short, such a keen eye for profit that he thought very
little of stepping over the boundary line of strict honesty to obtain
it. When Dent entered the shop it was, as usual, full of customers,
but presently these cleared off, and Dent and the owner could indulge
in a little confidential talk. They spoke in low tones, and Higgins'
assistant, strain his ears as he might, could not overhear a word of
their conversation. Several customers came in from time to time and
interrupted them; nevertheless, when Dent went away he felt abundantly
satisfied that he was laying his little trap with consummate care. Did
Higgins know a sailor of the name of Scarlett? Of course--did a lot
of business with him; as honest a fellow as ever breathed. Honest--oh!
Dent raised his eyebrows, and contrived by various innuendoes to convey
a contrary impression to the astute Higgins. They talked a little
longer.
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