And this is the most simple and natural mode of doing business, but it is not the only mode.

If circumstances make it convenient another may be adopted.

A single large holder--especially if he be by far the greatest holder--may fix his price, and other dealers may say whether or not they will undersell him, or whether or not they will ask more than he does.

A very considerable holder of an article may, for a time, vitally affect its value if he lay down the minimum price which he will take, and obstinately adhere to it.

This is the way in which the value of money in Lombard Street is settled.