“If we had known that, we might have saved ourselves this agreeable journey,” said Mr. Croft; while Mr. Stewart observed:
“Well, Frank, all I can say is, I am very sorry; for now we shall have to fight you as best we can. Once in the Times, it is war to the death, you know.”
“It was not I who sought the war,” answered Lord Kemms.
“After waiting nearly twelve months, you might surely have waited another day.”
“It was only yesterday I knew anything about the matter. I happened to be over at the Hollow with my aunt, and on the drawing-room table I saw one of the ‘Protector’ prospectuses. Glancing at it, I knew for the first time the use Black had made of my name.”
“It is singular your friend, Mr. Raidsford, did not communicate the fact to you before,” observed Mr. Stewart, with a slight sneer.
“There has been a coolness between me and Lord Kemms for some time past,” interposed Mr. Raidsford, “originating in this very affair. Lord Kemms assured me he would have nothing to do with your Company; and when, after that assurance, I saw his name amongst the directors, I confess I felt both surprised and nettled.”
“And pray, sir, if the question be not indiscreet, what interest was it of yours whether Lord Kemms became a director of our Company or not?”
“It was no personal interest of mine,” answered the contractor; “but believing, as I do, such companies to be the curse of commerce—the very death of legitimate trade—when I am asked for my poor opinion, I do not hesitate about expressing it.”
“You consider capital, then, which employs labour, which builds bridges, constructs railways, digs canals, sends out vessels, the death of legitimate trade?” inquired Mr. Stewart.