“The next question,” Ovington continued, “is important. We cannot use the highway, the gradients and angles render that impossible. We must acquire a right of way; but, fortunately, the estates we run over are few, no more than thirteen in all, and for a full third of the distance they are represented at this table.” He bowed gracefully to the two landowners. “Sir Charles will, of course, be President of the Road and Chairman of the Directors. We are fortunate in having at our head a country gentleman who has”—he bowed again—“the enlightenment to see that the landed interest is best served by making commerce contributory to its well-being.” 

 “But what about the game?” Sir Charles asked anxiously. “You don’t think——” 

 “On that point the greatest care will be taken. We shall see that no covert is closely approached.” 

 “And the—you won’t bring the line within sight of——” 

 “Of the Park? God forbid! The amenities of every estate must be carefully guarded. And, of course, a fair price for the right of way will be agreed. Seven of the smaller landowners I have sounded, and we shall have no trouble with them. The largest estate outstanding——” 

 “Is my landlord’s, I’ll bet!” Wolley exclaimed. 

 “Yes—is Garth. Mr. Griffin’s.” 

 Wolley laughed rudely. “Garth? Ay, you’ll have your work cut out there!” 

 “Oh. I don’t know!” 

 “I do. And you’ll find I’m right.” 

 “Well, I hope——” 

 “You may hope what you like!” Sir Charles shuddered at the man’s brusqueness. “The Squire’s a hard nut to crack, and so you’ll find, banker. If you can get him to do a thing he don’t wish to do, you’ll be the first that ever has. He hates the name of trade as he hates the devil!” 

 The baronet sat up. “Trade?” he exclaimed. “Oh! but I am not aware, sir, that this is—— Surely a railroad is on another footing?” Alarm was written on his face. 

 “Quite!” Ovington struck in. “Entirely different! Another thing altogether, Sir Charles. 

 Prev. P 12/363 next