“And he very politely, but quite definitely, refused?”
“That also is true.”
“Well, you see, Mr. Steele,” said Rockervelt, with something almost approaching a laugh, “there is more wisdom in grey hairs than most young persons are willing to admit. Would you be surprised if I told you that I have determined to ignore your advice, and so will not remove Mr. Blair from his position?”
“I am not in the least surprised, now that I know your opinion of him.”
“Maybe then I can astonish you by admitting that I intend to remove your friend, Mr. Manson, from the situation he so worthily fills.”
“To place him in a better position, I hope?”
“Oh, yes. I have been in need of him for some time in our New York office. I should have taken him long ago, if I’d had the right man to put in his place. The other day I received Philip Manson’s resignation, and without either accepting or declining it, I telegraphed him to let me know whom he suggested as his substitute. Yesterday I received his reply, and although I have been unable to follow the advice you have tendered me so far, I may accept it regarding the new candidate.”
With this Mr. Rockervelt pressed an electric button, and an alert young man answered his call.
“Meldrum, bring me that last letter of Manson’s about the division superintendency of the Midland.”
The secretary returned a moment later with the document, which he handed to Rockervelt, who tossed it across the table towards Steele. The letter read: