Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/111

 Not because Stranleigh has the power to dismiss me, but through the fact that he is a very decent fellow, I shall take care in future to speak to him fair. But here he comes, quite recovered from his depression. I hope he won't discharge me before I have time to make amends."

Stranleigh advanced towards the corner where the president and manager of Selwyn's Bank sat confronting one another, both watching his approach. There was no trace of resentment on the young nobleman's face. He greeted Sir George very deferentially, then turned with a twinkle in his eye upon Corbitt.

"Alexander," he said, "I have returned to enjoy an intimate confidential chat with you on the subject of radium."

"Radium!" cried Corbitt, in amazement.

"Yes; there are seventeen questions regarding radium that I wish answered."

"Well, you've come to the wrong shop, my lord. I don't know the first thing about radium."

"That is at once astonishing and gratifying. It is astonishing that any branch of knowledge is unknown to you, and it is gratifying that you will be unable to look down upon me from the lofty pinnacle of scientific erudition."