"Just so—a few thousands only—to be repaid out of the first proceeds, of course," returned Greenwood.
"Then, sir, I beg to decline the speculation," said the merchant, drily.
"Speculation! it is not a speculation," cried Greenwood: "it is a certainty."
"Nevertheless, sir, I must decline it; and as my time is very much occupied——"
"Oh! I shall not intrude upon you any longer," interrupted Greenwood, indignantly; and he strode out of the office.
"The impertinent scoundrel!" he muttered to himself, when he had gained the street. "After all the good things I have placed in his way, to treat me in this manner. But, never mind—let me once grow rich again and I will humble him at my feet!"
In spite of this attempt at self-consolation, Greenwood was deeply mortified with the reception which he had experienced at the merchant's office: his anger had, however, cooled and his spirits revived by the time he reached Birchin Lane, where dwelt another of his City acquaintances.
This individual was a capitalist who had once been saved from serious embarrassment, if not from total ruin, by a timely advance of funds made to him by Greenwood; and though the capitalist had paid enormous interest for the accommodation, he had nevertheless always exhibited the most profound gratitude towards the ex-member for Rottenborough.
It was, therefore, with great confidence that Greenwood entered the private office of the capitalist.
"Ah! my dear fellow," cried the latter, apparently overjoyed to see his visitor, "how have you been lately? Why—it is really an age since I have seen you! Pray sit down—and now say what I can do for you."