Nominally, by the company's constitution, the shareholders elected the Board; in practice, Cartwright had, so far, appointed the directors, and meant, if possible, to do so again.

The gentlemen by the fire were eligible for reelection, and Cartwright was satisfied, although he had not chosen them for their business talent.

Their names were good in Liverpool and their honesty was known.

Cartwright did not want clever men.

He was head of the house and knew it would totter to a disastrous fall unless he kept his firm control.
Now and then Gavin gave his employer a keen glance.