He saw where, for want of greater activity in offering the goods consigned--quicker communication with shippers and buyers, a better working agreement with surrounding commission men--this house, or, rather, its customers, for it had nothing, endured severe losses.

A man would ship a tow-boat or a car-load of fruit or vegetables against a supposedly rising or stable market; but if ten other men did the same thing at the same time, or other commission men were flooded with fruit or vegetables, and there was no way of disposing of them within a reasonable time, the price had to fall.

Every day was bringing its special consignments.

It instantly occurred to him that he would be of much more use to the house as an outside man disposing of heavy shipments, but he hesitated to say anything so soon.

More than likely, things would adjust themselves shortly.
The Watermans, Henry and George, were greatly pleased with the way he handled their accounts.