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208 rather hope that when his lordship is convinced that I have done everything in my power, he may yet join us. I shall offer him a seat on the board, or even the presidency of the board, so that he may be certain all my promises will be carried out."

"Well, if you act straight," said Hazel, doubtfully, "I don't see that much harm can come by luring Stranleigh away for a week, and now the only point to be settled is the question of payment. I must have a certain amount of money before five days are past, otherwise I shall be in deep trouble; be turned out of my clubs, and all that. It is no use telling me to wait till after the Cadiz reviews"

"You can have the money to-morrow, if you like," said Isador. "You write to Lord Stranleigh, inviting him to go to Cadiz with you. He will either accept or refuse. If you bring me a letter from him, saying he will go, I'll give you my cheque for five thousand pounds, the other half to be paid when you two reach Cadiz."

"You'll have to do better than that, Mr. Isaacstein. You must give me a cheque for two thousand pounds now, and the three thousand pounds when I bring you a letter from Stranleigh."

"But supposing you don't bring it? Suppose he refuses, what about my two thousand pounds?"

"You'll have to chance that. I don't think he'll