“I ask you to recognize the fairness of the proposition that you conduct your column in the best interests of the concern—which, under the new arrangement, would also be your own best interests.”
“Clear. Limpidly clear,” murmured Banneker. “And if I decline the new basis, what is the alternative?”
“Cut down circulation, and with it, loss.”
“And the other, the real alternative?” queried the imperturbable Banneker.
Marrineal smiled, with a touch of appeal in his expression.
“Frankness is best, isn’t it?” propounded the editor. “I don’t believe, Mr. Marrineal, that this paper can get along without me. It has become too completely identified with my editorial idea. On the other hand, I can get along without it.”
“By accepting the offer of the Mid-West Evening Syndicate, beginning at forty thousand a year?”
“You’re well posted,” said Banneker, startled.
“Of necessity. What would you suppose?”
“Your information is fairly accurate.”