About this story
Mr Meeson's nephew Eustace watches you dispute the account, then loses his own place at the firm for taking your side against his uncle. You leave with nothing signed, and when the doctor says Jeannie may not survive the winter without a costly change of air, you weigh returning to the very man you just called a cheat.
How it opens
Meeson's vast publishing offices measured books chiefly by the profit retained from their writers.
Mr MeesonI remember your title now, Miss Smithers; sales have been satisfactory enough.
Your successful novel remained bound by a contract signed when immediate need defeated bargaining power.
No. 3The chief asks that every author's account be ready before entering his room.
Choose
Ask for the complete sales and foreign-rights statement before discussing another book.
State the exact sum needed for Jeannie's care and ask for an advance against proven sales.