The latter, however, obviously meant to leave the argument to his dupes.

Agatha, noting his confidence, remembered that when they reached the office he had asked her to wait a few minutes while he talked to the secretary.
"Mr.Stormont made two rash statements," he said.

"He told us the reserved shares could not be sold, and that he could count upon a majority." "I object to Mr.Thirlwell's speaking," Stormont said with some alarm.
"We allowed him to stay at Miss Strange's request, but the manager has no vote." "I imagine Mr.Stormont doesn't know I am a shareholder.

Perhaps the secretary will enlighten him." Stormont started, Scott smiled, and George looked surprised.

The others waited anxiously.
"Mr.Thirlwell holds a quantity of our stock." "How much ?" Stormont asked, and when the secretary told him, struggled to preserve his calm.
"The reserved block is sold," Thirlwell resumed.