“We can't afford that, you see.”
“Can't? Well, you can afford what you have to. May I ask what you expect to get through for, from Roper's front to Maple Street?”
“Oh, well—isn't this a little inquisitorial?”
“Not necessary, anyway. I know, about.”
He named a figure. Macclesfield looked surprised.
Hennion went on slowly:
“The offer you have made Roper I happen to know that he won't take at all. You'll suspect, then, that the P. and N. are bidding against you. There'll be a mess, and you'd better not be in it. You might as well suspect it now. The P. and N. can afford anything they choose.”
Macclesfield said nothing.
“I'm going to make a suggestion, Mr. Macclesfield, if you like.”
“By all means!”