“Oh, very well. Anything for the sake of peace and quietness, and an amicable settlement. I should hate Mr. Schwartzbrod to think me exacting. Now, don’t go away thinking I’m reluctant to make concessions, and big ones. That’s seven shillings a share I am giving you, and on seventy thousand shares--how much is that, Mr. Mackeller, you know I’ve no head for figures?” “Twenty-four thousand five hundred pounds.” “Why, look at that, Mr. Hahn. Here are you, who refuse to leave me those documents you carry, who have been thinking hard of me--there, don’t deny it; I saw it by the expression of your countenance--here am I giving to Mr. Schwartz-brod and the delectable six a present of--of--of----” “Twenty-four thousand five hundred pounds,” prompted Mackeller the elder. “Yes, twenty-four thousand five hundred pounds in hard cash, bestowing it upon men I never saw, and up till to-day never even heard of. I don’t want to boast of my virtues, Mr. Hahn, but I doubt if you could find any man in the city who would so jauntily fling away twenty-four thousand five hundred pounds. I got the amount correct that time, Mackeller. I’m improving, you see.” “Very good, my lord. Shall I communicate with you further at this club?” “No. Hereafter our interviews must be on a hard business basis. The generous nature of our ‘78 wine makes me a little open-handed. The next interview will take place at Mr. Mackeller’s office in the city any time that suits your convenience, and I should be glad to have twenty-four hours’ notice, because I mustn’t devote my whole life to finance, don’t you know, for I am rather fond of automobiling, and may be out of town.” “Thank you. Good afternoon, my lord. Good afternoon, Mr. Mackeller.” The solicitor departed, and Lord Stranleigh smiled at his two companions, who had sat so long silent. “Well, my young chap,” said the frowning Mackeller, drawing a deep breath, “if you ever get to understand finance, God help the city!” His lordship indulged in a laugh, then turned to Peter and said: “I think you should resume your place at Southampton. You were seeing to the loading of a ship--what did you call it?” “The _Rajah_--the steamer _Rajah_.” “Well, even if I am not president or board of directors, I ask you to resume that occupation. You are still officially engineer for the company, I take it?” “Yes.” “Very good. Say not a word to anybody, but go down to Southampton, and proceed with getting the machinery and provisions into the steamer, just as if nothing had happened. If you meet any opposition, telegraph me, and I think I can overcome the obstruction.” So Peter took himself off to Southampton, and met with no obstacle in resuming his duties.