“If you join me, you run some risk of losing your money.”
“Of course. It's obvious that you don't think the risk very big, and I'm willing to take a fighting chance.”
“I don't know how big it is. That depends on the weather and accidents.”
“Exactly,” said Charnock. “If I join you with some money and teams, will it lessen, or add to, the risk?”
“It will lessen the risk.”
“Will it reduce, or increase, your working costs?”
“I think the answer's obvious.”
“Then it looks as if you'd be foolish to turn my offer down.”
Festing got up and walked about irresolutely for a moment or two. Then he stopped with some color in his face.
“I called you a shirker, Bob, and ordered Helen to leave you alone. Now I see you're the better man and I'm a confounded, fault-finding prig. But you're not vindictive, and we'll let that go. The trouble is, I'm obstinate and sure of what I can do—at least, I was, though my confidence has got shaken recently. Well, I think I can finish this contract, but don't know. I've lost a good deal of money, and would hate to feel I might lose yours.”