Page:Man's Country (1923).pdf/136

 dent of the Huron National, began—then cleared his throat with a cough as sepulchral as the tone in which he spoke—"I may tell you the result of our conference."

"If you please," said George quietly, but trying to conceal his anxiety.

"Then here it is," blurted Blodgett, as if he pronounced a doom. "This committee regards the success of the Morris-Judson Automobile Company as due to your personal efforts."

This was not a doom; it was a compliment. George wet an eager lip and leaned forward.

"If we, therefore, are to assume its financial responsibilities at this time," postulated Blodgett with a stubborn twist of the chin, "your control must be guaranteed in some way."

"Guaranteed?" George asked, almost resenting. "Why, Mr. Morris and I are the closest of friends. We strike hands before we go ahead on anything. The other directors are unanimous in supporting us."

"That is a very pleasant way to look at the world," broke in Blodgett, "but in our observation as bankers it is the unexpected which must be provided against. I have been delegated to tell you that if you will acquire stock control of the Morris-Judson Automobile Company, we will carry your loans through the year, because we believe your control is a guaranty of their soundness."