human
If you will let your man keep the horse ready I could catch the new night train back from the junction, he said.
gpt
That would, perhaps, suit both of us best.
human
As you wish,
gpt
You made me an offer a little while ago.
human
Which you refused,
gpt
I did; things have changed since then.
human
They have. Though I told the secretary to take care that only a very brief notice of the meeting was sent to the papers, news of what took place has, no doubt, leaked out. It was impossible to prevent this from happening, and it must have had some effect in the city. You are afraid it will damage your prestige and weaken your position.
gpt
I'm not prepared to admit that altogether.
human
It can't be denied. You no longer command public confidence as you did. You'll find it has been rudely shaken.
gpt
We'll let that subject drop. I must remind you that your father's will and the partnership deed prevent your getting rid of me unless I'm willing to go.
human
I can't deny it, but I think you will be willing. However, I'd better say that I don't wish to take an undue advantage of the situation. What do you propose?
gpt
That you buy me out, as you offered. I've sketched out the terms--you'll find them here, with an estimate of my average profits and what my interest in the firm is worth.
human
The fairest way would be to submit these figures to an outside accountant. As soon as he has made up a statement, I'll meet you at Carter & Roding's office and get them to draw up any documents that are needed to annul our partnership. Are you agreeable?
gpt
Yes; we'll consider the thing decided. Leonard hesitated for a moment.
human
I don't see, he added,
gpt
I quite agree with you. There are reasons enough to account for the split--the incompatibility of our views on business matters, your objection to taking a subordinate place. Even at the cost of allowing Florence to blame me, the truth must be kept from her.
human
Thank you! said Leonard.
gpt
I believe I've said all that's needful, and I may as well be off. It's a long drive to the junction.