Leonard started and his face grew hard; though it seemed impossible that Andrew, whom he had genuinely looked down on, should urge the matter.
"This is too much!" he exclaimed. "Have you lost your senses?"
"I think not. You have betrayed the trust my father had in you; you have started Allinson's on a downward course. That you have, with the exception of the Rain Bluff speculation, so far made money for the firm does not count, because you can't continue doing so. There's a code of business morality; they are not fools in the city, and your methods would be found out. Then the reputation we trade upon would be gone. But enough of this. Put your price on your position and I'll pay it if possible."
Leonard clenched his hands.
"No!" he answered. "I hold my place! You cannot get rid of me!"
"Is that your last word?"
"Yes! I've tried to be forbearing, but you push me too hard. It has come to an open fight, which may as well begin at the shareholders' meeting. I shall not resign from the Board."
"It was bound to come," said Andrew. "We know how we stand."
Leonard rose.
"Florence and I leave to-morrow! There is no train to-night."