"I suppose I'm taking an unusual line in offering the gentleman who has been speaking information which the chairman has refused him," he said. "He asked when he might expect a dividend. The answer is—never, unless a radical change is made in the Company's policy."
The plain words made a sensation, and after an impressive pause an uproar began.
"What about the prospectus with your name on it?"
"What changes would you make?"
"Keep quiet and let him speak!"
"No, it's a case of collusion; there's some trick in it!"
The meeting raged confusedly until Leonard got up. He looked shaken by the storm of indignation.
"Order, gentlemen! There is a motion before you."
"The amendment first!" somebody shouted.
"The amendment," said Leonard. "A show of hands will serve. 'That the report be held over, pending the furnishing of further details.'"