‘I cannot allow that,’ said Paul Montague.

‘I suppose then we must take the sense of the Board,’ said the Chairman.

’I have been discussing certain circumstances with our friend and Chairman,’ said Cohenlupe, ’and I must say that it is not expedient just at present to go into matters too freely.’

‘My Lords and Gentlemen,’ said Melmotte.  ‘I hope that you trust me.’

Lord Alfred bowed down to the table and muttered something which was intended to convey most absolute confidence.  ‘Hear, hear,’ said Mr Cohenlupe.  ‘All right,’ said Lord Nidderdale; ‘go on;’ and he fired another pellet with improved success.

‘I trust,’ said the Chairman, ’that my young friend, Sir Felix, doubts neither my discretion nor my ability.’

‘Oh dear...