"Because I want to keep Forde at St. Vedast Wharf for another twelvemonth."
Mr. Benning, between his teeth, gave vent to a low but most unlawyer-like whistle.
"That's it, is it," he commented.
"That is it," agreed Mr. Werner.
"And Kleinwort ditto?" said the lawyer, inquiringly.
"So far as I know," was the reply.
Then observed Mr. Benning,
"I am infinitely obliged by your frankness. I could not see my way before, but I think I can discern daylight now."
"It must be through a very dark tunnel then," remarked Mr. Werner bitterly.
"We must keep Mortomley's business moving."