"Then am I to understand that you don't follow Mr. Jones blindly, and that he has no control over your stock?"
Mary nodded, but as Stoddard leaned forward with an offer she hurried on to explain.
"But at the same time," she said in her gentlest manner and with a reassuring glance at her lover, "when we think what hardships Mr. Jones had endured in order to find this mine, and all he has been through since, I think it is no more than right that he should remain in control."
"Aha! I see!" responded Stoddard cynically, "may I enquire if you young people have an understanding?"
"That is none of your business," she answered sharply, but the telltale blush was there.
"Ah, yes, excuse me," murmured Stoddard playfully, "a lady might well hesitate—with him!"
He cast a teasing glance in the direction of Rimrock and perceived he had guessed right again. "Well, well," he hurried on, "that does make a difference—it's the most uncertain element in the game. But all this aside, may I ask you young people if you have a top price for your stock. I don't suppose I can meet it, but it's no harm to mention it. Don't be modest—whatever it is!"
"A hundred million dollars!" spoke up Rimrock promptly, "that's what I value my share of the mine."
"And you?" began Stoddard with a quizzical smile, but Mary seemed not to hear. It was a way she had, when a thing was to be avoided; but Stoddard raised his voice. "And you, Miss Fortune?" he called insistently. "How much do you want for your stock?"
She glanced up, startled, then looked at Rimrock and dropped her eyes to the table.