I had listened thus far without an attempt to interrupt. I was curious to see what plea Peter Bolton would make in support of his audacious attempt to turn the syndicate's money against the syndicate's objects; and it had not occurred to me as possible that Partridge and Nelson would fail to penetrate his scheme. I forgot for the moment that my colleagues were not informed of the purposes of the arch-plotter, and it was therefore with something of a shock that I heard Partridge consent to put three hundred thousand dollars into Bolton's hands, and saw Nelson dip his pen in ink to fill out the check.
"I beg pardon," I said, stepping forward, "but I think it will be better to hold that money."
At the sound of my voice Peter Bolton gave a violent start, and for a moment his face turned ashy gray, as he seized the arms of the chair to support himself. Then with an effort he recovered his self-possession, and gave me a nod that was meant to be ingratiating.
"Well," said Partridge, "if you'd like to look over Mr. Bolton's papers, here they are."
I waved them away.
"I don't doubt your judgment on the securities. It is beyond question. I merely object to making the loan at all."
Peter Bolton raised his hand, threw back his head with open mouth, and spoke in his most sarcastic drawl.
"Some Young Men like to interfere with Other Men's Business. But all that has been discussed. The matter is settled."
I took up the signed checks that lay before Nelson and replied:
"Oh, no; there are several points to be explained before we go further."