We'll try to make Norton sign for an interim payment.

Let's go and see him." Festing was doubtful, but they found Norton, the contractor's engineer, more compliant than he hoped.
"I suppose you are entitled to ask for a sum on account, but I'd take some responsibility in allowing the demand," he said.

"Why did you come to me now ?" "We want to be just," Charnock answered modestly.

"At present, there's no prospect of our finishing the work we ask the money for." "It doesn't go much beyond a prospect yet," Norton rejoined.

"However, I'll help you if I can, and will see what Kerr thinks.