dignity and such rot, you know."

"An advance cash payment of half a million dollars is so full of
dignity that its shoes squeak," announced Johnny. "As to delay, I
don't see any reason for it. You want to sell the property, don't
you?"

Eugene said yes, and the others looked doubtful.

"You're satisfied with the price?" demanded Johnny.

Since Eugene kept silent the others answered that they were.

"You know that by my plan you are perfectly secured until you are
fully paid; so there's no reason why we shouldn't wind up the
business at once."

"Should you say that this was regular, Birchard?" asked Eugene,
toying with his check lovingly. He had just finished figuring that
it was worth something like twenty thousand pounds!

"Quite regular indeed," Mr. Birchard smilingly assured him.
"Typically American for its directness and decision, but fully as
good a business transaction in every way as could be consummated in
London."

"Ow, I say," protested Eugene, but he seemed perfectly satisfied,
nevertheless.

"As I understand it," went on Mr. Birchard, "Mr. Gamble's