His greeting to the other occupants was but perfunctory, and then he turned to Gresham with: "You haven't sold your property adjoining my factory, have you, Gresham ?" "Well, I've given Mr.Gamble an option on it," admitted Gresham reluctantly.
"For how much ?" "That would be telling," interposed Gamble.
"For how long is your option ?" the colonel demanded.
"Thirty days." "What are you buying it for--investment or improvement ?" "That would be telling again." "Will you sell it ?" "Depends on the price." "What'll you take for it ?" "Fifty-five thousand." "Bless my soul!" exclaimed the colonel.

"Why, man, that's robbery! I'll never pay it.

I'll take a chance on waiting until your option expires, then I'll do business with Gresham.

Gresham, what will you want for the property if Gamble, or WHEN Gamble doesn't take it up ?" "Fifty thousand," said Gresham, and glanced darkly at Gamble.
Miss Joy interrupted with a laugh.

Gresham looked at her inquiringly, but he did not ask her the joke.