“Buy a couple of shares of L. S. on a ten-per-cent margin. Last quotation thirty-six.”
“Got a tip?”
“That’s what I have. I’m going down to the Seaman’s to-morrow to draw my pile. I’ve enough to collar twenty-five shares at that margin.”
“Well, I’ll think about it.”
Next morning L. S. opened at the same figure, and as soon as he got the chance Jack hied himself to the savings bank, drew his money, and, dropping in on Oliver Bird, surprised that gentleman by asking him to buy 25 shares of L. S. for him.
“You ought to know your business, Jack; but it seems to me you’re doing a foolish thing,” said the broker, warningly.
“That’s where you and I differ at present. Back me for twenty-five shares more, and I’ll let you in on the ground floor.”
“What do you mean by that?” asked Bird, curiously.
“Will you stand for the twenty-five if I tell you?”
“Certainly, if you’re determined to make the plunge; but remember, I strongly advise you against it. I owe you a good turn, and I’ll back you for fifty, so take your money away.”