'I don't know what I've got.'
'I can tell you then. You have that, and you've drawn nearly a thousand pounds since Fisker came over, in one shape or another. That's not bad interest on your money.'
'There was back interest due to me.'
'If so, it's due still. I've nothing to do with that. Look here, Mr Montague. I am most anxious that you should remain with us. I was about to propose, only for that little rumpus the other day, that, as you're an unmarried man, and have time on your hands, you should go out to California and probably across to Mexico, in order to get necessary information for the Company. Were I of your age, unmarried, and without impediment, it is just the thing I should like. Of course you'd go at the Company's expense. I would see to your own personal interests while you were away;--or you could appoint any one by power of attorney. Your seat at the Board would be kept for you; but, should anything occur amiss,--which it won't, for the thing is as sound as anything I know,--of course you, as absent, would not share the responsibility. That's what I was thinking. It would be a delightful trip;--but if you don't like it, you can of course remain at the Board, and be of the greatest use to me. Indeed, after a bit I could devolve nearly the whole management on you;--and I must do something of the kind, as I really haven't the time for it. But,--if it is to be that way,--do be unanimous. Unanimity is the very soul of these things;--the very soul, Mr Montague.'
'But if I can't be unanimous?'
'Well;--if you can't, and if you won't take my advice about going out;-- which, pray, think about, for you would be most useful. It might be the very making of the railway;--then I can only suggest that you should take your £6,000 and leave us. I, myself, should be greatly distressed; but if you are determined that way I will see that you have your money. I will make myself personally responsible for the payment of it,--some time before the end of the year.'
Paul Montague told the great man that he would consider the whole matter, and see him in Abchurch Lane before the next Board day. 'And now, good-bye,' said Mr Melmotte, as he bade his young friend adieu in a hurry. 'I'm afraid that I'm keeping Sir Gregory Gribe, the Bank Director, waiting downstairs.'