"Coal would have to retail at a dollar a ton to compete with my solar device in a hot climate," interrupted Roger.
"Very interesting if true! But you've erected no plant in a hot climate. I'll tell you what I will do though, Mr. Moore. I could very well use your unusual knowledge of heat transmission in my concern. I'll give you three thousand a year to begin with."
Roger got slowly to his feet, rolling up his drawings. "Thank you, Mr. Haskell. But I think I'll stick to my solar engine."
Haskell rose too. "An inventor's life is hell, my boy. Better come in out of the rain."
"But why should it be hell?" asked Roger. "The inventor is the very backbone of the industrial life of the world."
"I know it. But for every good invention offered there are a thousand poor ones. We who pay the piper have to be careful."
"I'm much obliged to you for giving me so much time," said Roger, picking up his hat.
"Not at all. And remember that my offer to you is a permanent one."
Roger grinned, and left the office.
Outside the building he drew a long breath, stared abstractedly at the passing crowd, then drew out his second letter of introduction. James Howe and Sons Company, Marine Engines. Roger decided to walk to his second meeting. It would give him time to collect his thoughts. The walk was a long one and by the time he had covered the distance his hopes had soared again.