human
Why, exclaimed Lucie, wide-eyed,
gpt
In case it went through on that basis, added Jachin Fell, his eyes on Gramont,
human
I would vote that the entire sum go to Miss Ledanois. Her land alone is involved. If she then wishes to invest with us in a new company to exploit other fields, well and good. One moment, my dear! Do not protest this suggestion. The sixteenth interest reserved to our company would provide both Mr. Gramont and me with a substantial reward for our slight activity in the matter. Don't forget that interest, for it might amount to a large figure.
gpt
Right, assented Gramont.
human
I would second your vote, Mr. Fell; I think the idea very just and proper that Miss Ledanois should receive the entire amount.
gpt
But--but, Henry! she exclaimed.
human
What do you think of selling the lease to these other men?
gpt
I can't answer for you, Lucie, he said at last.
human
I would not presume to advise.
gpt
What would you do, then, if you were in my place?
human
In that case, he said, slowly,
gpt
I would gamble. We know oil is in that ground; we know that it has been found in large quantities at Houma or near there. To my mind there is no doubt whatever that under your land lies a part of the same oil field--and a rich one. To sell fifteen-sixteenths of that oil for a hundred and fifty thousand is to give it away. I would sooner take my chances on striking a twenty-thousand barrel gusher and having the whole of it to myself. However, by all means disregard my words; this is not my affair.
human
You think it is the best thing to do; Henry does not, mused the girl.
gpt
I know that you're both thinking of me--of getting that money for me. Just the same, Uncle Jachin, I--I won't be prudent! I'll gamble! Besides, she added with smiling naïveté,
human
I'm not a bit willing to give up having a real oil company the very minute it is formed! So we'll outvote you, Uncle Jachin.
gpt
That motion of mine has not yet been made, said Fell. Her rejection of his proposal had no effect upon his shyly smooth manner.
human
Will you excuse us one moment, Lucie? If I may speak with you in the outer office, Mr. Gramont, I would like to show you some confidential matters which might influence your decision in this regard.