interest of their class seriously at heart. In a way we regret that
you took the trouble to call, because, to speak frankly, we would
rather write what we have to say, than to be placed in the somewhat
embarrassing position of telling you orally.'

"My cigar, somehow or other, no longer tasted good, and I was holding
it in an apathetic sort of a way, not caring whether it went out or
not. The bum hotel loomed up in front of me also. Continuing, the
chairman said:

"'We have received something like six other estimates from different
firms, and I must say some of their designs are "peaches." There are
two firms whose prices are lower than yours, too. We like your designs
very much, but I think if you place yourself in our position you will
see we have no other alternative but to place the order with another
house.

"He shifted his position uneasily and added with that final air we
know so well, 'I want to thank you for your interest and trouble and
we certainly appreciate the opportunity of seeing what you had to
offer.'

"This was a nice sugar coat on a bitter pill, but I didn't want to
take my medicine. I stood up, prepared to make a strong and expiring
effort and to explain what an easy thing it was for a firm to quote a
low price, etc., when the chairman came over quickly with extended
hand and said, 'Now, we understand how you feel, old man, but there is
no use prolonging this matter, which I assure you we regret more than
we express. However,' turning to the other fellows, 'I think we are
all agreed on one thing, and that is we are willing to make an