The “Racehorse” and “Eclipse” were frequently reported by fast-sailing ships to be on their way, “all well.”
In truth, the captains of both vessels had written letters, stating how successfully their voyage had progressed, and what valuable cargoes they were bringing.
The last letters were dated from Land’s End, where they had put in on account of wild and dangerous weather, and the captains said that but a few days would elapse ere they would be reported by the telegraph station at Holyhead or Gravesend.
The insurance-office of which Sir Andrew was president was particularly pleased at this information.
Sir Andrew was jubilant and in ecstasies.
“I must manage to get rid of this young Phillip,” thought he. “I know the state of his father’s affairs much better than he supposes. Ha! ha! he can’t blindfold me! I know a thing or two! Men on ’Change, as I am daily, hear many very curious things within a few hours.
“When the cargoes of these vessels are sold, and old Redgill’s debts are paid, there will not be much to spare, particularly when he pays me the fifteen thousand pounds he already owes me.
“He wants to marry my daughter, does he?
“What a smart youth he is, to be sure!
“As if I didn’t see his nice little game!