I guess I will wander over." To his great relief he found Mr.Gwynne alone and without preliminaries, and with the design of getting "quick action" before the disturbing element of Mrs.Gwynne's presence should be introduced, he made his offer.

He explained his purpose in purchasing, and with something of a flourish offered five thousand for "the hull plant, lock, stock and barrel," cash down if specially desired, but he would prefer to pay half in six months.

He must have his answer immediately; was not anxious to buy, but if Mr.Gwynne wanted to close up, he only had to say so.

He was not going to monkey with the thing.
"You have made me a much better offer than the one I received from Mr.
Martin, and I am inclined to accept it, but inasmuch as I have promised to give him an answer to-day, I feel that it's due to him that I should meet him with the bargain still unclosed." "Why ?" enquired Mr.Sleighter in surprise.
"Well, you see I asked him to hold the offer open until this afternoon.
I feel I ought to go to him with the matter still open." "Want to screw him up, eh ?" said Mr.Sleighter, his lips drawing close together.
"No, sir." Mr.Gwynne's voice had a little ring in it.

"I consider it fairer to Mr.Martin." "Don't see as how he has much claim on you," replied Mr.Sleighter.