"Mr.Bell is willing to take up Harkness' tenancy of the coal yard and seed store at the station.

He hopes you will grant him a long lease." Osborn pondered.

Harkness had been drunken, careless, and often behind with his rent.

He had let his business fall away and it was understood that Bell, who managed the opposition coal yard, had lent him small sums and until recently kept him on his feet.

This was not because Bell was charitable, but because if Harkness came down while he had any trade left, a capable rival might take his place.