“That’s all right as far as it goes,” said Mr. Jarboe. “It gives you the right to act for Mr. Whitemore, but what can you do without money, even supposing you to be capable of intelligent action on the big interests involved?”
“You are right, Mr. Jarboe; I’m afraid my hands are tied. Mr. Whitemore intended to transfer his Chicago National balance to me by check, but he lapsed into insensibility at the critical moment.”
“Is that really the fact?” asked the senior partner, looking his astonishment.
“Mr. George Bradley was present when Mr. Whitemore asked for his check-book and expressed his intention.”
“Well,” said the broker, “such a mark of confidence in your honesty and business capacity is remarkable. It is true I have lately heard him speak about you in terms of the greatest praise, but—however, it is useless to discuss the matter. He was prevented from signing the check, you say, so you cannot touch a cent of Mr. Whitemore’s money, even if your handling of that money would save him from ruin.”
“True,” admitted Vance dejectedly.
“I will have to consult with my partners as to what is best to be done under the circumstances,” said Mr. Jarboe, “and will advise you as soon as possible. We recognize your authority in the premises, and of course can make no move unless authorized by you in writing.”
“The bear pool will certainly try to break the market,” said Vance.
“Undoubtedly. Corn is high, and, but for this unfortunate affair, likely to go higher. Mr. Whitemore’s holdings have dominated the market and controlled the price. He has stood ready to buy every bushel offered. Probably half the visible supply of corn stored in the Kansas and Nebraska elevators is owned by him—a fact you should be familiar with, as you have just been out in that part of the county in his interest. Jarrett, Palmer & Carrington most likely have a quantity of grain which they have been holding back for a coup. Mr. Whitemore has suspected its existence, but has failed to discover any evidence to prove the fact. All reports point to the contrary supposition.”
“I have thrown a little light on that point, Mr. Jarboe,” said Vance.