f certain conditions, and we are ready to pass our checks
for all the money you need. My associates and myself ask for nothing
that is unfair. Now, will you take our money into your business, or
will you go on in the old, slow way?"

David Pollard had risen, in some agitation, and had walked to the further
end of the private office.

"Pardon me a moment," begged Farnum, then followed his friend. The two
conversed in low tones.

"You may leave the room, boys," announced Mr. Melville, turning to eye
Jack Benson.

Not one of the three stirred.

"Did you hear me?" insisted the capitalist, sharply.

"Yes, sir," answered Jack, quietly.

"Then why don't you go?"

"Mr. Farnum sent for us, and we are waiting to learn whether he is
through with us for the present."

"You may take my word for it," snapped Mr. Melville. "Go!"

The submarine boys paid no heed to him.

"The impudent young beggars," sneered Don Melville. "Low-born, and no
manners!"

Jack Benson turned, fixing his gaze upon Don's face Jack's look was full
of contempt, though he spoke no word.

"Don't try any impudent airs on me," warned Don, flushing, then paling,
as his fists doubled.

"Mr. Melville," broke in Jacob Farnum, returning, while David Pollard
remained where he was, looking out of the window, "I think we can cut
this scene very short. In the first place, in joining us, you demand
that we treat with utter injustice bright young employees who have been
extraordinarily faithful and devoted."

"You will soon come to see the need of that," replied the capitalist,
with a light wave of his hand.

"We do not see it," replied Farnum. "Nor do we intend to. Further, we
are disturbed by what you have made only too plain, that you intend to
get complete control of this business, and make Pollard and myself
merely subordinates in the affairs here."

"Not as bad as that," protested the capitalist, with a smile. "Of course,
in view of the very large amount of money we are offering, we must have
some voice in the management of--"

"Not this business!" interjected the boatbuilder, with emphasis.

"But, man, you must have the money!"

"We'll do without it, or get it somewhere else," went on the boatbuilder,
patiently. "We thank you, Mr. Melville, and those associated with you,
but Mr. Pollard and I have decided to go no further in the present
negotiations."

"What's that?" demanded George Melville, springing to his feet. "You
don't want