"By the way," said Simpson, "how long do you purpose remaining in Edelweiss, Blithers?"
For the first time, the capitalist faltered. He was almost ready to admit that his enterprise had failed in one vital respect. The morning's experience in the Council Chamber had shaken his confidence considerably.
"I don't know, Simpson," said he. "It is possible that we may leave soon."
"Before the Prince's dinner?" inquired Lady Simpson, again regarding his bald spot through the lorg-non.
"Depends on what my daughter has to say when she gets here," said he almost gruffly. "If she wants to stay for a while, we will remain. I don't mind saying that I have a curious longing for Wall Street. I am at home there and—well, by George, I'm like a fish out of water here."
His wife looked up quickly, but did not speak.
"I am a business man, Lady Simpson, not a philanderer. I'd like to take this town by the neck and shake some real enterprise into it, but what can you do when everybody is willing to sit down and let tradition look after 'em? I've put a lot of money into Grosstock and I'd like to see the country prosper. Still I'm not worried over my investment. It is as good as gold."
"Perfectly safe," said Lord Simpson.
"Absolutely," said the secondary London lawyer.
Pericault's comment was in French and not intended to be brief, but as Mr. Blithers was no longer interested, the privilege of completing his remarks was not accorded him. He did say Mon dieu under his breath, however, in the middle of his employer's next sentence.