The stockbroker frowned. "That, Mr Maybury," he replied, "is entirely my business. It is sufficient for you to know that I have decided to enlarge your stipend by the amount I have named."
"I wish you to answer my question, sir," said Mr Maybury, firmly.
"And I decline to answer it," returned the other, his previously urbane manner vanishing as he spoke.
"Then, sir, I shall take it that I am correct in my assumption--that you are making this increase solely because you wish me to occupy a better position in the world than my present salary enables me to hold."
"And supposing it were that?" demanded the stockbroker, roughly. "Do you mean to say you will refuse such an offer?"
"I do, sir. I absolutely decline this increase of salary. I will take what I earn, and not a penny more."
So saying, with a slight bow, Mr Maybury turned on his heel and left the room.
The stockbroker sat for some time in a state of amazement. At length he spoke.
"I could not have imagined--I would not have believed--that the City of London contained such a fool. Here is a man, as poor as a rat, actually throwing away a hundred and fifty a year! He must be mad!"
Mr Maybury breathed not a word at home of his interview with Mr Jefferson the elder. As for Harold, when he was informed by his father of the result of the conversation, he too marvelled greatly.