Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/230

 Stranleigh, unprompted by anybody, came to a conclusion, I knew that conclusion must be wrong, so I went in for all I was worth on the other side. Hence my wealth now greatly exceeds yours."

"There seems to be a touch of brag about that statement."

Do not misapprehend me. I did not say I have more money than you have. I merely said I was better off. You see, there are so many things I don't want. I have no use for a steam yacht, for estates in most of the shires, for thoroughbred horses, and all such. My desires are moderate. Besides, I am blessed with common-sense, and know how to use my money; therefore, behold the man of real affluence."

"Well, Blake, I'm very glad to hear it. There is much in what you say about desire, but I hope you are not palming those sentiments off on me as something new: they belong, really, to old Epicurius. And now I suppose you have come formally to tender your resignation?"

No; I don't intend to dismiss you as master just yet. I rather like my job, and I certainly like you."

Stranleigh smiled.

"Mutual," he remarked.