"Well, young man," said Mr. Collingsby, as I entered the chamber, where he was seated.
"Mr. Whippleton sent me to see you in regard to a transaction he wishes to complete this forenoon," I replied, producing my papers.
"Why didn't he come himself?"
I could not help thinking there was a great deal of force in this question, and it strengthened some vague resolves in my mind.
"I don't know, sir. He told me to show you this list of lumber, with prices," I continued, explaining more fully the errand upon which I had been sent.
"He should have come himself," added the senior partner, with a frown. "What is the balance in the bank?"
"About six thousand dollars," I replied, handing him the memorandum I had made.
"It ought to be thirty, if not fifty thousand. Don't you make any collections now?"
"Yes, sir; about the same as usual."
"There is something very strange in the business. I am asked to furnish twenty thousand dollars outside of the capital I have already invested in the firm. Tell Mr. Whippleton to come and see me immediately."