Any conclusion which had left him free of 'Squibs' without actual
pecuniary loss would have been satisfactory to Roland. He had conceived
a loathing for his property which not even its steadily increasing
sales could mitigate. He was around at Messrs. Harrison's office as
soon as a swift taxi could take him there. The lawyers were for
spinning the thing out with guarded remarks and cautious preambles, but
Roland's methods of doing business were always rapid.
"This chap," he said, "this fellow who wants to buy 'Squibs,' what'll
he give?"
"That," began one of the Harrisons ponderously, "would, of course,
largely depend----"
"I'll take five thousand. Lock, stock, and barrel, including the
present staff, an even five thousand. How's that?"
"Five thousand is a large----"
"Take it or leave it."
"My dear sir, you hold a pistol to our heads. However, I think that our
client might consent to the sum you mention."
"Good. Well, directly I get his check, the thing's his. By the way, who
is your client?"
Mr. Harrison coughed.
"His name," he said, "will be familiar to you. He is the eminent
financier, Mr.
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