“I’m sorry, Applerod,” said Bobby, “but there isn’t a share for sale. It was subscribed to the full capitalization before the incorporation papers were issued.”
Applerod was about to leave the room in deep dejection when Johnson, with a sudden happy inspiration, called him back.
“I think I know where you can buy five thousand,” said Johnson; “but you will have to hurry to get it.”
“Where?” asked Applerod eagerly, while Bobby went to the window to conceal his broad smiles.
“Just put on your hat and go right over to Barrister,” directed Johnson; “and take a blank check with you. I’ll telephone him, to save time for you. The stock is worth par, and that lonesome fifty shares will be snapped up before you know it.”
“You will excuse me till I go up-town, Mr. Burnit?” inquired Applerod, and bustled out eagerly.
He had no sooner left the building than Johnson grabbed Bobby’s telephone and called up Barrister.
“This is Johnson,” he said to the old attorney. “I have just sent Applerod over to you to buy fifty shares of New Brightlight at par. Take his check and hold it for delivery of the stock. I’ll have it over to you within an hour, or as soon as I can have the transfer made. It is my stock, but I don’t want him to know it.”
Hanging up the receiver old Johnson sat in the chair by Bobby’s desk and his thin shoulders heaved with laughter.
“Applerod will be plumb crazy when he finds that out,” he said. “To think that I have fifteen thousand dollars’ worth of this good stock that didn’t cost me a cent, all paid for with Applerod’s own five thousand dollars!”