Forty thousand will guarantee us the lens, anyhow." "And how about land, buildings, a telescope frame?
Have you all those things prepared for it ?" "Not as yet, but, since it takes four years at least to grind the lens, there will be time enough, when the lens is nearing completion, to look after the accessories.

We have picked our site, however--Lake Geneva--and we would not refuse either land or accessories if we knew where to get them." Again the even, shining teeth, the keen eyes boring through the glasses.
Cowperwood saw a great opportunity.

He asked what would be the cost of the entire project.

Dr.Hooper presumed that three hundred thousand would do it all handsomely--lens, telescope, land, machinery, building--a great monument.
"And how much have you guaranteed on the cost of your lens ?" "Sixteen thousand dollars, so far." "To be paid when ?" "In instalments--ten thousand a year for four years.

Just enough to keep the lens-maker busy for the present." Cowperwood reflected.