Bolton immediately rose to his feet and looked at Sander.
"John, this isn't what we agreed on. That money, you already..."
The terms he had previously offered to lure Sander away had been 7,000 Pound Sterling, plus 4% of the Bolton-Watt Company's shares.
Sander hurriedly signaled to his cousin Frank. He only knew technology, but to smoothly carry out the task the Crown Prince had assigned him, he needed experience in company management and a good tongue. Thus, the Intelligence Bureau had arranged for a "cousin" to accompany him to the United Kingdom.
Frank immediately picked up the thread.
"Forgive me for speaking bluntly, but my cousin and I gave up our excellent conditions in France and returned to the United Kingdom not merely for a little money, but for a career that truly belongs to us.
"And given what my cousin experienced before..."
He cast a seemingly casual glance at Watt.
"Without sufficient shares, it will be difficult for my cousin to feel that his future is secure."
Bolton could not help but sigh at that.
He knew that Watt had once used his authority to suppress Sander, leaving the High-Pressure Gauge Sander had invented shelved for a long time. In the end, Sander had been forced to leave the company with bitterness in his heart.
So, Sander's concerns were understandable.
Bolton and Falkner quickly exchanged looks. After clearing his throat, Bolton said:
"John, I also think your shares should be increased, but 20% is simply too much.
"You know as well that 20% of the company's shares are currently worth at least 70,000 Pound Sterling. Perhaps we can first raise your holdings to 6%."
At his "cousin's" meaningful look, Sander delivered the lines they had prepared long ago.
"Well, I'm not short of money. I can invest. Oh,