Rubber exploitations were overdone; there were signs that investors were losing their confidence.

Withdrawal, however, was difficult, for it must be quietly effected without breaking prices by any unusual sales.

It was therefore desirable that other holders should cling to their shares, and any fresh buying by outsiders would, of course, be so much the better.

This was one reason why he had suggested a purchase to Bland.
Opening a book, he noted the amount of stock standing in George's name.
This had been purchased by Herbert, who had been given such authority by his cousin at a time when the directors' position needed strengthening, though it had been necessary to dispose of sound shares, yielding a small return.

The prompt sale of this stock would secure George a moderate profit, but after some consideration Herbert decided that it should remain.