“I shall see to it, gentlemen; I shall do my best to oblige you.”
“And to benefit your institution,” interjected Mr. Crewe.
The Manager smiled the sycophantic smile of one who worships Mammon. “I shall endeavour to meet the difficulty, Mr. Crewe. We shall see what can be done.” He rang his bell, and a clerk appeared. “Mr. Zahn is not at the counter to-day,” he said.
“No, sir,” said the clerk; “he is buying gold.”
“Very good; send him to me,” said the Manager, and Isaac was quickly summoned.
“I shall require you to proceed to the diggings at Bush Robin Creek,” said the Manager, addressing the gold-clerk. “These gentlemen have made representations to me which show that there is considerable business to be done there by buying gold. You will hold yourself in readiness to start in a couple of days. Does that suit you, sir?” he added, turning to Scarlett.
“Admirably,” replied Jack. “I’ll return to-morrow, and shall tell the diggers that your agent is coming.”
“But why should you not travel together?” said the Manager. “You could show Mr. Zahn the way.”
Isaac looked at Scarlett, and Scarlett looked at him.