Freeling took a little time to consider before replying.

"Yes," he said, at length, speaking slowly, as one careful of his
words. "But all expedients are 'risky,' as you say--some of them
very risky. It takes a long, cool head to manage them safely."

"I don't know a longer or cooler head than yours," returned Mrs.
Dinneford, a faint smile playing about her lips.

"Thank you for the compliment," said Freeling, his lips reflecting
the smile on hers.

"You must think of some expedient." Mrs. Dinneford's manner grew
impressive. She spoke with emphasis and deliberation. "Beyond the
sum of two thousand dollars, which I will get for you by to-morrow,
I shall not advance a single penny. You may set that down as sure.
If you are not sharp enough and strong enough, with the advantage
you possess, to hold your own, then you must go under; as for me, I
have done all that I can or will."

Freeling saw that she was wholly in earnest, and understood what she
meant by "desperate expedients." Granger was to be ruined, and she
was growing impatient of delay. He had no desire to hurt the young
man--he rather liked him. Up to this time he had been content with
what he could draw out of Mrs. Dinneford. There was no risk in this
sort of business. Moreover, he enjoyed his interviews and
confidences with the elegant lady, and of late the power he seemed
to be gaining over her; this power he regarded as capital laid up
for another use, and at another time.