And I have no doubt that hundreds of well-meaning business men do that sort of thing daily--yes, thousands!" He shrugged his broad shoulders.
"Because I personally have not chosen to engage in matters of this--ah--description, is no reason for condemning the deal or its method--" "Every reason!" said Orchil, laughing cordially--"_every_ reason, Captain Selwyn.

Thank you; we know now exactly where we stand.

It was very good of you to let us come, and I'm sorry some of us had the bad taste to show any temper--" "He means me," added Draymore, offering his hand; "good-bye, Captain Selwyn; I dare say we are up against it hard." "Because we've got to buy in that property or close up the Siowitha," added Mottly, coming over to make his adieux.

"By the way, Selwyn, you ought to be one of us in the Siowitha--" "Thank you, but isn't this rather an awkward time to suggest it ?" said Selwyn good-humouredly.
Fane burst into a sonorous laugh and wagged his neck, saying: "Not at all! Not at all! Your reward for having the decency to stay out of the deal is an invitation from us to come in and be squeezed into a jelly by Mr.Neergard.

Haw! Haw!" And so, one by one, with formal or informal but evidently friendly leave-taking, they went away.