"A larger capital would be an advantage," Thirlwell assented dryly.
"We can't extend our capital," George objected. "It was hard work to get the stock we have issued taken up."
"I can show you how the difficulty can be got over," Stormont resumed. "You know I floated the Adventurers Company to work the back blocks, and as the claims haven't come up to our expectations, we have more money than we can use, while the Agatha Company has not enough. Well, I propose that you combine with us on the terms I've drafted. If you don't approve them all, we'll meet you where we can."
He gave George a paper, but Agatha interposed: "You can take it for granted that we will not make the combine."
Stormont smiled, deprecatingly. "I'm afraid you cannot help yourselves, Miss Strange."
Agatha looked at George, whose face got red.
"I can understand the Adventurers being anxious to take us in. Your property is worthless, Mr. Stormont, and ours is rich."
"We're willing to pay."
George studied the paper and then threw it down. "You're willing to pay about a quarter of what the mine is worth! After reading that document, it's obvious that you mean to put the screw to us; but we'll fight."
Scott, who glanced at the draft of agreement, nodded, but Stormont said: "You might make some trouble, but must be beaten."