Part 27 (1/2)
”If it seems possible that we can profitably increase our output later on, by means of further capital, we'll put up a smelter. But in that case it might be economical to do the work ourselves.”
”Who would superintend it?”
”I would, if necessary, with the a.s.sistance of an engineer used to such plant.”
Horsfield smiled in a significant manner.
”Aren't you inclined to take hold of too much? When you have plenty in your hands, it's good policy to leave a little for somebody else.
Sometimes the person who benefits is willing to reciprocate.”
The hint was plain, and Nairn had said sufficient on another occasion to make it clearer; but Vane did not respond.
”If we gave the work out, it would be on an open tender,” he declared.
”There would be no reason why you shouldn't make a bid.”
Horsfield found it difficult to conceal his disgust. He had no desire to bid on an open tender, which would prevent his obtaining anything beyond the market price.
”The question must stand over until I come back,” Vane went on. ”I'm going up the west coast shortly and may be away some time.”
They left the smoking-room shortly afterward, and when they strolled back to the others, Vane sat down near Jessy.
”I hear you are going away,” she began.
”Yes. I'm going to look for pulping timber.”
”But what do you want with pulping timber?”
”It can sometimes be converted into money.”
”Isn't there every prospect of your obtaining a good deal already? Are you never satisfied?”
”I suppose I'm open to take as much as I can get.”
Vane answered with an air of humorous reflection. ”The reason probably is that I've had very little until lately. Still, I don't think it's altogether the money that is driving me.”
”If it's the restlessness you once spoke of, you ought to put a check on it and try to be content. There's danger in the longing to be always going on.”
”It's a common idea that a small hazard gives a thing a spice.”
Jessy shot a swift glance at him, and she had, as he noticed, expressive eyes.
”Be careful,” she advised. ”After all, it's wiser to keep within safe limits and not climb over too many fences.” She paused and her voice grew softer. ”You have friends who would be sorry if you got hurt.”
The man was stirred. She was alluring, physically, while something in her voice had its effect on him. Evelyn, however, still occupied his thoughts and he smiled at his companion.
”Thank you. I like to believe it.”
Then Mrs. Nairn and Horsfield crossed the room toward them and the conversation became general.