The solicitor then drew a bundle of papers from his pocket, and in a business-like manner read the contents of one which he extracted from the parcel:—

"ALGIERS, ORAN, AND MOROCCO GREAT DESERT

RAILWAY.

"(Provisionally Registered Pursuant to Act.)

"Capital £1,600,000, in 80,000 shares, of £20 each.

"Deposit £3 2s. per Share.

"COMMITTEE OF DIRECTION.

"The Most Honourable the Marquis of Holmesford,

G. C. B., Chairman.

"George M. Greenwood, Esq., M.P., Deputy Chairman.