“Thoroughly; Browne, indeed, has a leader already 'set up'—”
“What do I care for all these?” broke in Dunn, peevishly. “Surely no man knows better than yourself that these fellows are only the feathers that show where the wind blows. As to any influence they wield over public opinion, you might as well tell me that the man who sweats a guinea can sway the Stock Exchange.”
Hankes shook his head dissentingly, but made no reply.
“You have brought the Bank accounts and the balance-sheet?”
“Yes, they are all here.”
“Have you made any rough calculation as to the amount—” He stopped.
“Fifty thousand ought to cover it easily—I mean with what they have themselves in hand. The first day will be a heavy one, but I don't suspect the second will, particularly when it is known that we are discounting freely as ever.”
“And now as to the main point?” said Dunn.
“All right, sir. Etheridge's securities give us seventeen thousand; we have a balance of about eleven on that account of Lord Lackington; I drew out the twelve hundred of Kellett's at once; and several other small sums, which are all ready.”
“It is a bold stroke!” muttered Dunn, musingly.