Mr. Fairfax appeared to hear this with satisfaction, and said that he would make Colonel Preston an offer for a part of his stock.
"Most of my property is invested in real estate in New York," he said; "but I should like to have some manufacturing stock; and, from what you tell me, I think favorably of the Melville Mills."
"We should be glad to have you settle down among us," said the landlord.
"I shall probably do so," said Fairfax. "I am very much pleased with your town and people."
In due time Colonel Preston drove over. As usual, he put up at the hotel.
"Colonel," said the landlord, "there's a gentleman stopping with me who desires an introduction to you."
"Indeed! What is his name?"
"James Fairfax."
"Is he from this neighborhood?"
"No; from the city of New York."