"Best thing the company ever did. Have you heard from a shareholder called Ventnor. You know the man I mean?"

"Well! You may get a letter that'll make you open your eyes. An impudent scoundrel! Just write at my dictation."

"SIR,--I have your letter of yesterday's date, the contents of which I am at a loss to understand. My solicitors will be instructed to take the necessary measures.

'Phew What's all this about?' the secretary thought.

"I'll sign." And the shaky letters closed the page:

"Anything else I can do for you, sir?"

"Nothing, except to let me know if you hear from this fellow."

When the secretary had gone the old man thought: 'So! The ruffian hasn't called the meeting yet. That'll bring him round here fast enough if it's his money he wants-blackmailing scoundrel!'