“I really could not take any active part in such a movement, Mr. Burnit,” returned De Graff, still more coldly. “The conservatism necessary to my position forbids my connection with any sensational publicity whatsoever.”
An hour later, Crone, the advertising manager, came up to Bobby very much worried, to report that not only the First National but the Second Market Bank had stopped their advertising, as had Trimmer and Company, and another of the leading dry-goods firms.
“Of course,” said Crone, “your editorial policy is your own, but I’m afraid that it is going to be ruinous to your advertising.”
“I shouldn’t wonder,” admitted Bobby dryly, and that was all the satisfaction he gave Crone; but inwardly he was somewhat disturbed.
He had not thought of the potency of this line of attack. While he knew nothing of the newspaper business, he had already made sure that the profit was in the advertising. He sent for Jolter.
“Ben,” he asked, “what is the connection between the First National and the Second Market Banks and Sam Stone?”
“Money,” said the managing editor promptly. “Both banks are depositories of city funds.”
“I see,” said Bobby slowly. “Do any other banks enjoy this patronage?”
“The Merchants’ and the Planters’ and Traders’ hold the county funds, which are equally at Stone’s disposal.”
Bobby heard this news in silence, and Jolter, after looking at him narrowly for a moment, added: