Dane's eyes leapt, and darkened, and lightened; but after all, his answer was sober.
'That will do; but you cannot permanently support Mr. Charteris's mill hands on charity. The only sure method of relief would be to buy up the mills.'
'Then we can run them against each other!' said Wych Hazel.
'What a splendid thought! I shall be a better neighbour that Mr.
Charteris. I will only undersell you just a little.'
Dane smiled, but this time he said nothing. Only watched her continually.
'Then as Mr. Falkirk's consent might be difficult to get,he is a little insane upon mills just now,perhaps the purchase had better be made with the remains of my last winter's legacy. Over which, you know, nobody has any control but my own wise self.'
'How much do you suppose the purchase of those mills might require?'
'I have no idea. The legacy was largeand there is a good deal left.'
'A few hundred thousands?'
No, not so much as that. Well,then I must have another ugly talk with Mr. Falkirk. He would not listen to you, one minute.'
'I should not listen to you, either, Wych; and I should have to be taken into consultation, you know.'