“Do so, by all means. I shall be delighted, and will cheerfully render you all the assistance in my power. But, my friend, let me give you one piece of advice.”
“What is that?”
“Say as little as possible to your wife on the subject. Women don't understand business. They are frightened at risks and don't understand speculation.”
“I think you are correct,” said his host. “Men must judge for themselves. It is a weak man who would be guided by his wife.”
“So I say. Why, my wife happened to learn that I had gone into Erie on the occasion I mentioned. She remonstrated in great alarm; but when I announced that I had cleared twenty thousand dollars, she had no more to say.”
The next day they went to New York together and within a week the squire had bought largely in the Nevada mine. He subscribed to a financial paper, and was fully embarked on the dangerous sea of speculation.
CHAPTER XXIV
JAMES IS SNUBBED
In accordance with the invitation, Cameron walked to supper with Squire Leech. His social position as the son of a rich manufacturer insured him a cordial welcome and great attention from the whole family.