“Very well. My chiefs are the most generous of men.”
“Oh, we all know that.”
“If you have lost money these last two days, they will refund it. They are even willing to allow you a reasonable profit, and I am empowered to negotiate regarding the figures.”
“And all this for pure philanthropy, Mr. Nicholson?”
“All this if you will merely stand aside and not interfere in a market you do not understand, and complicate a situation that is already somewhat delicate.”
“And if I refuse to stand aside?”
“If you refuse, they will crush you, as they have crushed many a cleverer man.”
“Ah! that’s not tactful, Nicholson, and I’m sure it would not meet the approval of your employers. Your last remark is apt to provoke opposition rather than compliance. Would it surprise you to know that I possess a more potent backer than even your distinguished chief?”
“More potent? Yes, it would surprise me. Have you any reluctance in mentioning the name?”
“Not the slightest—it’s a lady.”