In a few moments, the lawyers were able to supply the information that a berth could be secured in a first-class steamer which would leave Liverpool for New York in two days’ time; and it was arranged that a passage should be booked.
“We await your further orders, Mr. Horn,” said Mr. Ball, rubbing his hands together, as he perceived that his client still retained his seat.
“I’m afraid I detain you, gentlemen.”
“By no means, my dear sir,” protested Mr. Ball.
“No,” echoed Mr. Tongs.
“I am glad of that,” said “Cobbler” Horn. “I should be sorry to waste your valuable time.”
More than once a clerk had come to the door to announce that so-and-so or so-and-so, awaited the leisure of his employers; and, in every case, the answer had been, “let them wait.”
The time of Messrs. Tongs and Ball was indeed valuable, and no portion of it was likely to prove more so than that bestowed on the affairs of “Cobbler” Horn.
Both the lawyers smiled amiably.
“You could not waste our time, Mr. Horn,” said Mr. Ball.