But I sell
only on the condition that the buyer does not transfer the property
to a limited company at a higher figure.'
'I will put one question to you, Mr Babylon,' said the millionaire.
'What have your profits averaged during the last four years?'
'Thirty-four thousand pounds per annum.'
'I buy,' said Theodore Racksole, smiling contentedly; 'and we will,
if you please, exchange contract-letters on the spot.'
'You come quickly to a resolution, Mr Racksole. But perhaps you
have been considering this question for a long time?'
'On the contrary,' Racksole looked at his watch, 'I have been
considering it for six minutes.'
Felix Babylon bowed, as one thoroughly accustomed to
eccentricity of wealth.
'The beauty of being well-known,' Racksole continued, 'is that you
needn't trouble about preliminary explanations. You, Mr Babylon,
probably know all about me. I know a good deal about you. We
can take each other for granted without reference. Really, it is as
simple to buy an hotel or a railroad as it is to buy a watch,
provided one is equal to the transaction.'
'Precisely,' agreed Mr Babylon smiling. 'Shall we draw up the little
informal contract? There are details to be thought of. But it occurs
to me that you cannot have dined yet, and might prefer to deal with
minor questions after dinner.'
'I have not dined,' said the millionaire, with emphasis, 'and in that
connexion will you do me a favour? Will you send for Mr Rocco?'
'You wish to see him, naturally.
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