“I really can’t say,” replied Smithers. “You might make an application to my Junior. I do nothing whatever with the details. I don’t know what plans or agreements he may have been making.” “I should like exceedingly to take stock. How do the shares sell?” “The price is high, as we wish to confine our shareholders to the richer classes. We never put it at less than £1000 a share.” “I would take any quantity.” “I dare say some may be in the market yet,” said Smithers, calmly. “They probably sell at a high premium though.” “I’d pay it,” said Potts. “Well, you may write and see; I know nothing about it.” “And if they’re all taken up, what then?” “Oh--then--I really don’t know. Why can’t you organize a company yourself?” “Well, you see, I don’t know anything about the place.” “True; that is a disadvantage. But you might find some people who do know.” “That would be very difficult. I do not see how we could begin. And if I did find any one, how could I trust him?” “You’d have to do as I did--give him a share of the business.” “It would be much better if I could get some stock in one of your companies. Your experience and credit would make it a success.” “Yes, there is no doubt that our companies would all be successful since we have a man on the spot.” “And that’s another reason why I should prefer buying stock from you. You see I might form a company, but what could I do?” “Could not your cashier help you?” “No, not in any thing of that sort.” “Well, I can say nothing about it. My Junior will tell you what chances there are.” “But while I see you personally I should be glad if you would consent to give me a chance. Have you any objection?” “Oh no. I will mention your case the next time I write, if you wish it. Still I can not control the particular operations of the office. My control is supreme in general matters, and you see it would not be possible for me to interfere with the smaller details.” “Still you might mention me.” “I will do so,” said Smithers, and taking out his pocket-book he prepared to write. “Let me see,” said he, “your Christian name is--what?” “John--John Potts.” “John Potts,” repeated the other, as he wrote it down. Smithers rose. “You may continue to draw on us as before, and any purchases of stock which you wish will be made.” Potts thanked him profusely. “I wish to see your cashier, to learn his mode of managing the accounts. Much depends on that, and a short conversation will satisfy me.” “Certainly, Sir, certainly,” said Potts, obsequiously. “Philips!” he called. Philips came in as timid and as shrinking as usual. “This is Mr. Smithers, the great Smithers of Smithers & Co., Bankers; he wishes to have a talk with you.” Philips looked at the great man with deep respect and made an awkward bow. “You may come with me to my hotel,” said Smithers; and with a slight bow to Potts he left the bank, followed by Philips.