Shortly afterward Edgar came in and they talked of something else; but two days later Herbert returned and George went over to Brantholme. He was shown into the library where Herbert was sitting, and the latter was on his guard when he saw his cousin's face. He greeted him affably, however, and made a few inquiries about his farming.
George stood looking at him with a fixed expression.
"I think," he said shortly, "we had better talk business."
"Oh, well," replied Herbert. "I suppose you have studied my statement. I needn't say that I regret the way matters have turned out; but one can't foresee every turn of the market, or avoid a miscalculation now and then. It would hurt me if I thought this thing had anything to do with your going to Stephen's."
"We won't discuss that. I gave you authority to look after my affairs;
I want it back."
Herbert took a document from a drawer and laid it on the table.
"Here it is. But won't you let me try to straighten matters out?"
"Can they be straightened out?"
"Well," said Herbert with some embarrassment, "I'm afraid there's a serious loss, but it would be wiser to face it and sell off the shares."
"I can do what seems most desirable without any further assistance."