“All of which we will take into consideration, my dear sir. Now, not to take up your time, what do you say? I have a plan in my pocket of the estate, and I am quite prepared to come to terms at once.”
“But is not this very sudden?” said the Colonel, smiling.
“Well, perhaps so, my dear sir; but I always advise the companies who intrust me with their affairs to be business-like and prompt. Let us have none of the law’s delays, my dear sir, I say. It means waste of time; and as time is money, it is a waste of hard cash. Now, sir, you, as a military man, know the value of decision.”
“I hope so,” said the Colonel, who looked amused.
“Well, in plain English, sir, will you sell?”
“In plain English, Mr Dix,” said the Colonel, promptly, “‘No.’”
“Take time, my dear sir, take time,” said the lawyer. “Don’t, let me implore you, throw away a good chance. Name your terms.”
“I have no terms to propose, sir. I like my house here, and I shall not part with it at any price.—Yes, Dolly? What is it?”
For the maid had tapped and entered, looking very round-eyed and surprised.
“Another gentleman to see you, sir.”