“I’ve been expecting a representative of Mr. Whitemore, as those corn options expire at noon to-day. I am bound to say I looked for an older person than you. I presume you have a power of attorney to act for him?” said Mr. Peabody, holding out his hand.
Vance produced the paper, which the gentleman very carefully examined.
“How am I to know that you are really the person set forth in this document—that you are actually Mr. Whitemore’s representative? It may be a forgery, and you may be acting for people opposed to that gentleman’s interests,” said Mr. Peabody sharply.
“I have a letter of introduction which ought to cover that point,” answered Vance, promptly producing an envelope addressed to the person he was talking to.
“Hum!” said Mr. Peabody, glancing it over. “Seems to be all right. However, as his option is a large one covering grain in our three elevators, I’ve got to be careful. Excuse me a moment.”
“Are you going to call up Mr. Whitemore?” asked Vance as the gentleman rose from his desk.
“Why do you ask?” asked Mr. Peabody abruptly, casting a suspicious look at the boy.
“Because, for business reasons he expressly desires that you should call up Mr. Walcott of the Chicago National Bank and ask for him. He does not want any communication at his office direct.”
“Very well,” replied the gentleman, who easily surmised Mr. Whitemore’s reasons.
The elevator magnate entered a telephone booth at the end of the room and sat there a matter of fifteen minutes.