Mind you, I do not admit anything of the kind. I do
not anticipate any more dire results than that the dividends will remain
at their present per cent. But even supposing your argument to be well
founded, this timber belongs to the people of the United States. It is
part of John Jones's heritage, whether John Jones lives in White Oaks or
New York. Why should I permit Jones of New York to be robbed in favour
of Jones of White Oaks--especially since Jones of New York put me here
to look after his interests for him? That's the real issue; and it's
very simple."
"You look at the matter from a wrong point of view----" began Oldham,
and stopped. The land agent was shrewd, and knew when he had come to an
_impasse_.
"I always respect a man who does his duty," he began again, "and I can
see how you're tied up in this matter. But a resignation could be
arranged for very easily. Mr. Baker knows thoroughly both your ability
and experience, and has long regretted that he has not been able to
avail himself of them. Of course, as you realize, the great future of
all this country is not along the lines even of such great industries as
lumber manufacture, but in agriculture and in waterpower engineering.
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