Captain Tubb stroked his beard, and put the ends into his mouth; then, after consideration he admitted—
"Well, it will cost money."
"And are you really going to sink money in pumping out water?"
"Consider, Mrs. Saltren, that I shall have the working of the quarry for no rent at all during five years."
"And you think it worth the outlay?"
"Seven per cent, guaranteed."
"My son says that all I can expect to get for my capital if invested is five per cent."
"I dare say, in town. At Orleigh, seven."
Neither spoke for some time; Captain Tubb continued to play alternately with his beard and his hat; and Mrs. Saltren looked on the floor, then furtively at her visitor.
Presently the widow asked, "What will you take? Bottled stout or spirits and water?"
"Thank you, whichever you drink."
"I drink neither," answered Mrs. Saltren, drawing herself up. "I taste nothing but tea and water; but when an old friend comes and sees me, I make an exception. I have some whisky in the sideboard—Giles suffers in his inside, and I'm obliged to keep it by me against his attacks. If you will allow me I will get it out."
She rang for water and tumblers, and produced the spirits and sugar.
"Now tell me some further news of Orleigh," she said, as she stirred a glass.
"There has been the cottage of Patience Kite done up again," said he, "and she has gone back into it, which is unfortunate, for it would have suited me if I work the old quarry."
"But surely it would not be large enough for you, cap'n."
He shook his head. He had finished his glass, and now abstractedly he half filled it with water.
