Page:Robert Barr - Lord Stranleigh Philanthropist.djvu/286

 Take care of the thousand pounds, and the millions will look after themselves."

"You are, of course, within your rights to exact the utmost interest you could obtain safely, but I think you should have permitted me the opportunity of meeting Corbitt's offer before giving notice of withdrawal."

"I think so too, Peter, but Corbitt is the man dealing with the affair, so if anything strenuous has been done, he is the person to blame, and to whom you should complain."

"Nevertheless, you gave him the power to act."

"Oh, I always made bad bargains. People seem delighted to take advantage of my innocence. Corbitt being, like yourself, an excellent man of business, will see that I get justice."

"Have you ever found me take advantage of you? Have you ever lost even a penny piece on my account?"

"I can't say that I have."

"Then why don't you play fair?"

Stranleigh raised his eyebrows slightly.

"That charge has never before been made against me."

"Well, it's made against you now."

"Ah, in that case, do sit down. I haven't quite