A clot of blood or a bone was pressing on his brain, and the chances that he would ever recover were extremely doubtful.
Reporters, however, began to nose out the fact that Vance Thornton, as Mr. Whitemore’s representative, was the power that had made itself felt that day, and from present indications was likely to continue to dominate the market.
Already he had gathered in the greater part of the clique’s five million bushels, which everybody now knew were stored in the elevators of Elevatorville.
At this rate he would soon have absolute control of corn.
But Jarrett, Palmer & Carrington were not beaten yet, by a long chalk.
All during the rest of the week corn was thrown at Jack Fox and accepted.
Every effort was made by the clique to overwhelm the young operator, but it failed.
The Sunday editions now hailed Vance Thornton as the coming corn king.
His picture was printed on the first page, and a copious account of his young life up to date was published in double-leaded type to increase its importance.
Thereafter Mr. Whitemore’s office was filled day after day with eager traders anxious to gain his ear.