"There's much in what you say," returned the general manager, guardedly.
Rogers, David, and the Mayor exchanged quick, triumphant glances. They had won.
Mr. Chambers again relapsed into his appearance of thoughtfulness, and they all sat waiting for him to speak. David laid his hand on Rogers's and pressed it exultantly.
While Mr. Chambers still sat thus, the office door opened and his secretary apologetically tiptoed across the room with a letter in his hand.
"I told Mr. Hawkins you were engaged, but he insisted that this was important," the secretary said to Mr. Chambers, and withdrew.
Mr. Chambers read the note, thought a moment, slowly folded the sheet, then raised his eyes.
"Before going further, there is one point—of no importance, I dare say it will prove to be—that it might be well for us to touch upon." He centered his calm gaze upon the five owners. "Since you have intrusted Mr. Rogers with the management of your property I take it that he has your fullest confidence?"
"Ye-es," said one hesitatingly, and the others followed with the same word.
"Your confidence, of course, is founded on thorough acquaintance?"
David glanced from the impassive Mr. Chambers to Rogers. The mask of control had fallen from his face. He was leaning forward, his whole being at pause, his face a climax of fear and suspense.