Page:Barr--Stranleighs millions.djvu/22

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10
STRANLEIGH'S MILLIONS

an extent that I am in constant terror of violence that may result in murder, or suicide, or both."

"Ah, this is rather serious. Do you think there would be any advantage if I went home with you, advised him to sell out at Brassard's figure, and offered to finance him in any undertaking that commended itself to him in some other place?"

The woman shook her head.

"He would not listen to you, nor to anyone else."

"Does he not see the inevitable end of such a contest? He is pitting himself against modern progress. The man who does that inevitably goes to the wall. It's like standing in the middle of a country road when a fifty-horse-power automobile is tearing along. Whatever may be your opinion of automobiles, it is just as well not to attempt to stop one with your body."

"My husband is quite beyond the reach of reason."

"Then what would happen if I sought an interview with Brassard? You say he is a keen, hard business man. It is likely he does not take the same point of view as that unfortunately held by your husband. This struggle is merely one of many to him, and he would doubtless be glad to have it brushed out of the way. Now, I'll make a present of four thousand pounds to Mr. Brassard on condition that he will add his one thousand pounds, and offer the total to your husband."