“From my father. He is terribly down on mining stocks. He would consider me next to a thief if he thought I bought stocks.”
“That is absurd. You needn't tell him how much money you have. Here is my statement of all I made; my commission and moneys paid for you. I sold your stock at a fraction over $800 per share. Oh, Clarence, why did you make me sell? Look at this. After buying the government bonds as ordered you have left $260,000, when you might have had half a million over.”
“Never mind. I made enough. I'd rather let some one else make the balance than to sell when things begin to tumble down. Did you say $260,000?”
“Yes, $260,000, when it ought to be $400,000 at least.”
Clarence laughed at Hubert's rueful face.
The waiter brought in their breakfast.
“Broiled oysters on toast! Oysters baked in the shell! Broiled chicken. Let us discuss them in preference to stock,” said Clarence.
Having helped his friend and then himself, Hubert said:
“What are you going to do with your $260,000 now since you are not to buy stock?”
“I have not thought about it, but I guess the best thing would be to invest all in government bonds.”