Between an intelligent employer and a capable, honest employe there can
be no question about gratitude. I speak for both Mr. Pollard and myself,
therefore, when I say that it is our feeling that Captain Benson and his
mates must continue in their present positions."
The color came back to Jack's face. Joy beamed out in his eyes. Hal
looked as though he had been given a new lease of life.
"Hooray!" roared Eph. He gave two vigorous jig steps, then stopped,
abashed.
"Excuse me, Mr. Farnum," he begged, shamefacedly.
"I do not think you quite understand," went on Mr. Melville, regarding
the boatbuilder coldly. "The placing of my son as I have indicated is
an absolute condition on the part of our group."
"And I have declined it," returned Mr. Farnum rising, and standing
easily.
"Then you do not want our capital, Mr. Farnum?" sternly demanded Mr.
Melville.
"Not on your conditions, sir!" came, sharply, from the boatbuilder.
"Oh, you will come to your senses, soon," rejoined the capitalist,
coolly. "You need a good deal of money for the extension of your
business, and we stand ready to supply it. All that is needed is the
conceding of certain conditions, and we are ready to pass our checks
for all the money you need. My associates and myself ask for nothing
that is unfair. Now, will you take our money into your business, or
will you go on in the old, slow way?"
David Pollard had risen, in some agitation, and had walked to the further
end of the private office.
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