"It's a creditable idea, though I'm no sure it's as common as might be desired. While I have to thank ye for it, I would not consider the explanation altogether necessary," said Nairn, whose eyes twinkled. Then he addressed Vane: "Now we come to another point--the company's a small one, the mine is doing satisfactorily, and the moment's favourable for the floating of mineral properties. If we got an option on the half-developed claims near the Clermont and went into the market, it's likely that an issue of new stock would meet with investors' favour." "I suppose so," said Vane. "I'll support such a scheme, when I can see how an increased capital could be used to advantage and I am convinced about the need for a smelter. At present, that's not the case." "I mentioned it as a duty--ye'll hear more of it; for the rest, I'm inclined to agree with ye," Nairn replied. A few minutes later he went into the house with Carroll, and as they entered it he glanced at his companion. "In the present instance, Mr. Vane's views are sound," he said. "But I see difficulties before him." "So do I. When he grapples with him it will be by a frontal attack." "A bit of compromise is judicious now and then." "In a general way it's not likely to appeal to my partner. When he can't get through by direct means, there'll be something wrecked. You had better understand what kind of man he is." "It's no the first time I've been enlightened upon the point." Shortly after they had disappeared, Miss Horsfield came out of another door, and Vane rose when she approached him. "Mrs. Nairn told me I would find you and the others in the verandah," she informed him. "She said she would join you presently, and it was too fine to stay in." "I think she was right," Vane replied. "As you see, I'm alone. Nairn and Carroll have just deserted me, but I can't complain. What pleases me most about this house is that you can do what you like in it, and--within limits--the same thing applies to this city." Jessie laughed, and sank gracefully into the chair he drew forward. "Yes," she said. "I think that would please you. But how long have you been back?" "A fortnight, since yesterday." There was a hint of reproach in the glance Jessie favoured him with. "Then I think Mrs. Nairn might have brought you over to see us." Vane wondered if she meant she was surprised he had not come of his own accord, and he was mildly flattered. "I was away at the mine a good deal of the time," he replied deprecatingly. "I wonder if you are sorry to get back?" Turning a little, Vane indicated the climbing city, rising tier on tier above its water front; and then the broad expanse of blue inlet and the faint white line of towering snow. "Wouldn't anything I could say in praise of Vancouver be trifle superfluous?" he asked.