“Sir?”
“You have thrown your money away. You are a fool! You are timid! You have neither the genius, the steadiness, nor the daring to manage and to multiply a great fortune. Were you like myself, Jacob, you or your children might have a hand in controlling the destinies of England, and thus of the world. You have behaved like a pettifogger and a coward, Jacob. I do not ask you to be honest. No man is honest when he is sure that dishonesty will enrich him. But, whatever you are, I ask you to be that thing with all your soul. Be great, or be nothing! Only fools and cowards patter about morality! I tell you that success is the only morality.” Here Mr. Bendibow, who had spoken with calmness, though by no means without emphasis, checked himself, and putting his hand in his pocket drew forth a key which he handed to his son. “Open the strong box,” he said, “and take out the papers you will find in it.”
Jacob did as he was bid. But his first glance at the papers made him start and stare in a bewildered manner at the unmoved countenance of his father. He then reverted to the papers; but, after a close inspection of them, he seemed only more bewildered than before.
“This is South Sea stock, sir,” he said at length.
“Well, Jacob?” said Mr. Bendibow, composedly.
“Nigh on fifteen thousand pounds’ worth at par, sir.”
“Yes, Jacob.”
“I see how it is; you have been buying for some one!” broke out Jacob, energetically.
“Evidently, Jacob.”
There was a pause. “On commission, of course?” hazarded Jacob.