Tomlin held up a large hand, not too clean, upon which sparkled a diamond ring.
"You spoke of compromise, James?"
"Yes, sir. I suggest that my engagement to Miss Quinney should be sanctioned and recognized. I will stay on here, and demonstrate to Mr. Quinney my claims to be taken on later as a junior partner. Unless Miss Quinney of her own will cancels the engagement, the marriage will take place——"
"Never!" shouted Quinney.
James smiled deprecatingly.
"Shall I retire, gentlemen? You have time to talk things over. Mr. Hunsaker will not be here for another hour yet."
Tomlin nodded portentously:
"Yes, yes; leave us."
IV
Tomlin was the first to break an ominous silence: