“There is but one proviso,” said the old man. “I wish to name the manager.”
“I regret I cannot agree to that, Mr. Anson, I have already chosen the manager, and guarantee that he will prove efficient.”
“I’ll forego your generous offer of the house and property if you will allow me to appoint the manager.”
“I am sorry, Mr. Anson, but you touch the only point on which I cannot give way.”
“Very well,” cried Anson, angrily, his eyes ablaze. “The arrangement is off.”
Both young men saw that Stanmore Anson was indeed difficult to deal with, as his ancestors had been in many a hard-fought battle.
“Wait a moment! Wait a moment!” exclaimed Challis. “This will never do. It is absurd to wreck everything on a point so trivial. I am the man whom Mr. Johnson wishes to make manager. I now refuse to accept the position, but if the bargain is completed, I’ll give Mr. Anson and his manager all the assistance and advice they care to receive from me, and that without salary.”
“Be quiet, Challis!” cried Stranleigh.
“Challis! Challis!” interrupted the old man, gazing fiercely at his junior. “Is your name Challis?”
“Yes, sir.”