"I may." This was the truth as Roy's father had said, if the agent was found to be dishonest, a new one, with an office in the Bleecker street building might be engaged.
"Aren't you rather young to go in business?"
"Perhaps, but I am representing other persons. Have you any offices to rent in that building?"
"A few."
"What do they rent for?"
It was Roy's idea to make inquiries in the guise of a possible tenant, and, see what prices Mr. Annister was charging. What his next move was you shall very soon see.
"Well, young man, rents are very high in that building. It is in a good neighborhood, where property is increasing in value all the while, and we have to charge high rents. Besides there is a good demand for offices there."
This, Roy thought, was not the sort of information Mr. Annister had sent to Mr. Bradner at the ranch.
"Do you own the building?" asked the western lad, wanting to see what the agent would say.
"No, but I am in full charge. It would be no use for you to see the owner, as he leaves everything to me. He would not give you any lower rent rate than I would. Besides, he lives away out West, and never comes to New York."