The manufacturer went on:
“I consider it practicable, and am disposed to make you an offer for it. Are you authorized to conclude terms?”
“My mother will agree to anything I propose, sir.”
“Then this is my offer. The model must be patented at once. I will see to that. Then make over to me half the invention, and I will agree to pay you and your mother one thousand dollars a year for the next ten years.”
“Are you in earnest?” gasped Herbert.
“Entirely so,” said Mr. Cameron. “Will that satisfy you?”
“I would have accepted a quarter of the sum you offer, sir.”
“Better not tell me that,” said Mr. Cameron, smiling. “I might take advantage of it. Will you consider it a bargain, then?”
“Oh, how happy my mother will be!” said Herbert.
“Don't you want to go home, and carry the news?”