“I see. So that you will be considerably benefited by the road.”

“Yes, to a moderate extent.”

“But if a different course should be selected, how then?”

“If the road goes through the farm I would be willing to give a quarter of the damages awarded to me to—you understand?”

“I think I do. After all it seems the most natural route.”

“I think there can be no doubt on that point. Of course the corporation will be willing to pay a reasonable sum for land taken.”

“I think I can promise that, as I shall have an important voice in the matter.”

“I see you are a thorough business man,” said the squire. “I hold that it is always best to pursue a liberal policy.”

“Quite so. You have no doubt of obtaining the farm?”

“Not the slightest.”