"
"There will be--if the war in Europe ever starts," Matt retorted;
"and, what's more, I'm going to bet there will be war within thirty
days."
He did not consider it advisable to mention to Cappy that he was going
to bet ten thousand dollars!
CHAPTER XLVIII
VICTORY
At ten o'clock the following morning Matt Peasley, accompanied by an
attorney, an expert in maritime law, presented himself at the Oriental
Steamship Company's office. MacCandless and the attorney for his
company were awaiting them, with a tentative form of contract of sale
already drawn up, and after a two-hour discussion on various points
the finished document was finally presented for the signatures of both
parties, but not, however, until Matt Peasley had been forced to do
something that brought out a gentle perspiration on the backs of his
sturdy legs. Before the shrewd MacCandless would consent to begin the
work of placing the vessel in commission, according to agreement, he
stipulated a payment of twenty-five thousand dollars down! He
estimated the cost of the docking and repair work at fifty thousand
dollars, and, desiring to play safe, insisted that Matt Peasley should
advance at least fifty per cent. of this preliminary outlay in cash.
Matt thereupon excused himself from the conference on the plea that he
had to consult with others before taking this step.
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