Mackellar was silent for a few moments.
"I'll no' deny it," he then said. "Would ye be willing to produce the notes of hand and the long-date bills Dick Johnstone has given ye and cancel them on payment of the money lent with current interest up to date? If ye insist, we might allow a little more interest, because ye took some risk."
"I'd be willing to give up one or two," Williamson answered with some hesitation.
"But no' the rest, which are no' in your hands?"
"I suppose I must admit that. But what did you mean by saying I took a risk?"
"We'll talk of that again. Are ye willing to give your word that ye'll lend Mr. Johnstone no more money, make no fresh bet with him, and no' help him to negotiate a loan?"
"Is that all?" Williamson asked with a touch of sarcasm.
"I think the matter could be arranged on the terms I have laid down."
On the whole Williamson was conscious of relief. To do as Mackellar asked would place him in an embarrassing position, but he had been afraid of something much worse.
"It needs thought," he said.