“Well, yes, it is nearly new,” said Mr Penwynn. “Mr Trethick here advises its purchase and refixing to pump out the mine.”
“But that would run into a lot of money,” said Tregenna.
“Yes,” replied Geoffrey; “but it all fits the place, and it is to be got for a fourth of its value. Even if the whole venture proved a failure, the machinery would be worth the money. It seems to me a chance.”
Tregenna sat back in his chair, tapping his teeth with the end of his pencil.
“That machinery costs a tremendous deal of money,” he said, thoughtfully.
“Yes, and is in admirable order,” said Geoffrey, “or I would not suggest such a thing.”
“What do the trustees ask for the lot?” said Tregenna, at last.
Geoffrey mentioned the sum.
“Well, that must be very moderate,” said Tregenna, “as far as I understand such things. But business is business,” he continued, laughing. “I am growing very sordid. Look here, Mr Penwynn, I know Cropper and Grey, the trustees, of course. If you decide to purchase that machinery, which certainly, on the face of it, seems a wise stroke, especially as you want it, and it would always be worth its money, I’ll undertake to get it for you two hundred and fifty pounds below the sum named on condition of received a cheque for fifty pounds commission.”
“Certainly. Agreed,” said Mr Penwynn; “but I have not yet made up my mind.”