Half an hour afterward they sat in a corner of the veranda, where Mrs. Willans' guests left them alone. These quiet, intent men of affairs obviously did not belong to their world.
"Well?" Robinson said.
"One of two things has got to be done; there's no middle course."
Robinson nodded.
"That's true. Middle courses generally lead to nothing."
"Very well. We can cut out our deal with President Altiera, lose the money we have spent, and let the concessions go; or we can pay up again, hang on, and put the matter through."
"What's your opinion? The fellow asks for more."
"Do you mean to be guided by me?"
"Yes," Robinson said. "Take which you think is the right line; I'll stand in."
"It's pretty hard to see. We'll make good if we get the concessions; but the President's up against a bigger thing than he thought. It's going to cost him and us some money to head off the revolutionists, but if we don't drop out right now, we've got to brace up and put it over. Well, as I'm fixed, it's a big risk. My money's making good interest, and if I go on, I've got to sell out stock I meant to hold. A set-back would be a serious thing for me. I want a few minutes to think it over."