The superintendent’s brother-in-law frowned, and said in a meaning tone: “We have no doubt the opinion of the court could be taken. May I ask the name of the gentleman who has given us that striking piece of information? Mr. Soames Forsyte? Indeed!” He looked from Soames to old Jolyon in a pointed manner.

A flush coloured Soames’ pale cheeks, but his superciliousness did not waver. Old Jolyon fixed his eyes on the speaker.

“If,” he said, “the late superintendent’s brother-in-law has nothing more to say, I propose that the report and accounts.⁠ ⁠…”

At this moment, however, there rose one of those five silent, stolid shareholders, who had excited Soames’ sympathy. He said: