“Nothing of the sort,” said Mr. Jones.
“Well, that was my impression,” said Emmie. “I don’t profess to be an expert. But I can assure you, Mr. Jones, we are here to do business. We want to do business. Can’t we make a deal of it, anyhow?”
“Not on your terms. I’d sooner go to government. You forget there’s government always ready to buy.”
“Oh, Mr. Jones!” said Emmie, as if shocked by this pretence. “I understand that the government officials have inspected your ships at least a dozen times.”
“They may change their minds.”
“Never. If the government had wanted them they would have taken them long ago.”
“That’s so,” said Cairns, firmly.
“Nevertheless, Mr. Jones,” said Emmie, resuming a gentle argumentative tone, “suppose we were to make you a sporting bid for the three vessels?”
“No, no,” said her partners, astounded; and Mr. Cairns touched her arm and began to cough. But Miss Verinder quietly went on with it.
“A bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Every day your ships are deteriorating in value. Now a firm offer, Mr. Jones. Cash! Twenty-seven thousand for the three!”