As William Anjou spoke, he pointed next door:
"Osenfott is next door. He just brought a more detailed report delivered by his men, who only just returned. That's what finally made up my mind. As for Osenfott himself, you needn't worry. He'll be investing his entire fortune, and with the credit for discovering that open-pit mine included, he'll receive ten percent of the shares."
The Blonde Young Lady pursed her lips and frowned slightly:
"It sounds good, but more and more like a trap. Come to think of it, I've never asked—how exactly did you come to know this Osenfott?"
"We met in Wilundell in the summer of 1852. I was preparing a gift for Father's birthday at the time, and Osenfott approached me of his own accord, offering me a small bronze statue. Yes, the very one Father now keeps on his bookshelf. He is a very capable man. Though he can be somewhat unscrupulous, you should understand, Margaret, that nothing can be accomplished with upright people alone."
Margaret smiled mockingly:
"Is that why he burned down the warehouse last week, then threw the enemy he had murdered beforehand into the fire as well?"
Shade, hidden in the wardrobe, frowned slightly. Osenfott had said there had been no living people inside. So that was what he had meant.
"Margaret, are you joining this business or not? If you refuse, you aren't my only sibling."
William Anjou asked sternly. Margaret raised one finger.
"Give me a week to think it over. Give me a copy of the Silver Mine documents. This is no small sum—I need time to consider it."
"No problem! Margaret, you know me. I can tell bait from fruit. As for Mr. Olsenford, I hope you won't be so prejudiced against him. I can introduce the two