, carefully, "the
wealth of the Sultan is nothing to it, or--or it isn't worth a plugged
nickel."

Skippy and Snorky exchanged glances of sudden dismay.

"It's one or the other. That's what I will find out."

"How'll you do that?" said the roommates, in a breath.

"I shall write for catalogues first. I may have to conduct a personal
investigation at the patent office--and of course I must look at all
possibilities. The idea is revolutionary," said Macnooder, reviving
their spirits. "Mr. Bedelle, nothing can deprive you of that distinction
and glory. Your fame is secure. But the bank account? Can we protect
ourselves against pirating? Can the Bathtub Combine avoid in any way,
shape or manner, being forced to treat with the owners of the Bedelle
Foot Regulator? That's what I must carefully consider. Gentlemen, one
week from to-day I promise you my answer."

"Then you _will_ take it up, Doc?"

"If everything is all right we incorporate Bedelle, patent the foot
regulator, organize a stock company, and I shall accept the posts of
President and Treasurer, with fifty-one per cent of the stock."

"Fifty-one per cent, Doc!"

"My invariable terms. The responsibility and the control must be mine. I
don't ask fifty-two per cent, or fifty-three per cent. I ask only
protection. Take it or leave it."

Skippy gazed at Snorky, who pondered a long while, but Macnooder's
professional manner sunk deep into their imaginations.

"You don't trust us!" said Skippy sorrowfully.

"Business is business!" said Doc, pointing to the documents he had
signed. "Did you trust me?"

"I sort of expected we'd all go cahoots," said Skippy reluctantly.

"Fifty-one per cent, gentlemen, or good day," said Macnooder pompously.

"Take it," said Snorky.

Skippy drew a long breath. It had been a day of disillusions. What
millions had slipped away! Truly the lot of the inventor was hard!

"Well?" said Macnooder, rising and shooting his cuffs. "Is it or is it
not?"

"It is," said Skippy heavily.

"And now, gentlemen," said Macnooder briskly, "I make no promises. I
shall examine the scheme ruthlessly, without sentiment or prejudice--but
perhaps, likewise who knows!--Gentlemen, your hands, this moment may be
historic!"

Caught by the sudden inspiration of how history might some day look back
to these humble beginnings, with a common gesture they rose and clasped
hands.

CHAPTER VII

TRAGEDY

BEDELLE, Incorporated! John C. Bedelle,