Page:Edgar Jepson--the four philanthropists.djvu/30

24 "Well, the company is practically started. We've only got to find a job," said Chelubai in a soothing tone.

"I tell you what," said Bottiger, "I've got an idea. Why shouldn't we begin with that fellow—what's his name? The swine who got old Chantrey's money out of him in some beastly company, and made the poor old beggar blow out his brains. Old Chantrey was very decent to me when I was a boy. I've been trying to think out a way of getting at the infernal sweep for months. Let's begin with him. What's his name? You know, Roger."

"Pudleigh—Albert Amsted Pudleigh," said I.

"That's the man. Let's out him for a start," said Bottiger; and I had never seen him moved by so eager an animation.

"He would be an excellent subject for our first operation. There's not only old Chantrey; but a few months ago he swindled an orphan out of a Granite Company by means of the Companies' Act and her idiot trustee. I could not even advise her lawyers to take action, the swindle was so legal. I should be delighted to begin with Albert Amsted Pudleigh. But there's a drawback to him."

"What's that?" said Bottiger quickly.

"He's a Whole-Hog Wapshot; and his relations, if he's got any, would be too pious to pay for his removal."