Chapter XXI Summary

Lapham returns from his two week trip out west in a sullen mood. Walker confides in Lapham that he feels there are bad times coming for the company. He seems to feel recognize the fact that Rogers is pulling Lapham down with him. Walker also points out that they are facing a lull in the paint business and the construction of Lapham's house is draining his profits.

About mid-afternoon Rogers drops in to see Lapham. Lapham asks Rogers if he knew the value of the mills and what the railroad planned to give for them. When Rogers replies he assumed the railroad would pay a fair price Lapham accuses him of lying. He also tells Rogers that he now realizes Rogers is a thief. Lapham tells the man he has allowed him to use him as much as he will allow...