"Are you crazy?"
"Possibly. Come over here."
Mr. Torrington took Cassis by the arm and led him to the excited group surrounding Ezra P. Hipps. The American's head and shoulders appeared above the crowd. He was offering Estuary Rails at fourpence three farthings. Catching sight of Nugent Cassis he broke into a grin, shook his head sadly and asked:
"Coming to join the party?"
"We are," replied Mr. Torrington, "in the form of purchasers. I'll buy at four-three."
The American frowned.
"Say, you serious, Mr. Wise Man?"
"Perfectly."
"What'll you take?"
"All you've got."