“I have never counted that I had a ‘following.’”
“I understand that you have a very strong one,” insisted Sharpe. “What you ought to do is to see Mr. Stone.”
“I have been to see him,” replied Bobby with a smile.
“So I understand,” said Sharpe dryly. “By the way, next Tuesday I am to be voted upon in the Idlers’. You are on the board of governors up there, I believe?”
“Yes,” said Bobby steadily.
Sharpe studied him for a moment.
“Well, come around and see me about this consolidation on Wednesday,” he suggested, “and in the meantime have another talk with Stone. By all means, go and see Stone.”
“Johnson,” asked Bobby, later, “what would you do if a man should ask you to sell him your personal influence, your self-respect and your immortal soul?”
“I’d ask his price,” interposed Applerod with a grin.