He realized also that he was rapidly losing the confidence of his companions.

They were not men of any great account in that city, and it was significant that the Board Meeting was held in Wannop's little back office, where there was scarcely room for all of them.
"You have discussed those estimates at length already," he said.

"I should, however, like to point out that I consider them absurdly high.
In fact, I'd undertake to do the work at not more than two-thirds of the cost." "This company," said the first speaker, severely, "has no intention of taking up road-making and the building of flumes and dams.

It has, as I think you will admit, gentlemen, quite enough already on its hands." There was some show of agreement from all but Wannop, and Weston set his lips.

There had been a time when they had listened to his suggestions, but now it was becoming evident that they regarded him with suspicion.
"This," said his colleague, "is a little list of our requirements and expenditures before we can expect to get to work.