"How long's Mr. Rogers been interested in real estate in this neighbourhood?"
"I've been with him for less than a year, so I don't exactly know. But I believe about eight or nine years."
"In the same business before then?"
But the entrance of Rogers at that instant saved David a reply. The caller, who had sat down, rose and held out his hand.
"Is this Mr. Rogers? Harris is my name—William Harris."
Rogers, as he came up, laid hold of the back of a chair. He did not see Mr. Harris's hand.
"I'm glad to meet you," he returned in his low voice. "Won't you sit down?"
The three took chairs, and the next hour was filled with talk about the houses Mr. Harris had examined. Mr. Harris was very eager for the buildings, and David became excited at the prospect of the agent's commission that would come from the sale. But Rogers was quiet and reserved as always—answering all questions fully, save a few casual personal queries which he evaded. When Mr. Harris went away he said in so many words that the deal was as good as settled, except for a small difference in the price which would bother them little.
The instant the office door closed upon Mr. Harris David turned eagerly to Rogers, who was sitting motionless in his chair.
"Won't that be a windfall though if he takes those houses!" he cried. "Your commission will be at least two thousand dollars!"