Just then a couple of carriages came rolling up to the Controller’s house. Out of one of these stepped the Regent of Santjoemeh, and he at once walked up to the European gentlemen. After the customary salutations:
“Well, Radhen Mas Toemenggoeng,” said Grashuis hugely pleased at seeing the Javanese chief arriving thus early, “you are coming, I hope, to buy a good lot!”
“Perhaps, sir, but money is scarce,” replied the Regent with a smile.
“Never mind that, Radhen Mas,” laughed Grenits, “you can buy on tick.”
The cautious old chief smiled and shook his head, but had no time to reply; for by this time the second conveyance, a capacious drag, had discharged its load which consisted of a member of the firm of Gladbach and Co. and the whole of his staff of clerks, &c.
The agent walked up to Verstork, shook hands with him and whispered:
“Very bad news, Controller!”
“What is the matter?” asked Verstork.
“The Chinamen at Santjoemeh have been ordered not to come to your sale.”
“Who gave that order?”