“How much is owing you?”

“The books say five hundred and thirteen thousand pounds—but it’s doubtful if I can get any of it. And now Smithers & Co. will be down on me at once.”

“What do you intend to do?”

“I don’t know.”

“Haven’t you thought?”

“No, I couldn’t.”

“Well, I have.”

“What?”

“You’ll have to try to compromise.”

“What if they won’t?”