your percentage might easily rise above your

"The policy is established and successful, thanks largely to you. I would be the last to deny it." "What do you reckon as my probable income under the proposed arrangement?" "Of course," answered the proprietor apologetically, "it would be somewhat reduced this year. If our advertising revenue increases, as it naturally should, your percentage might easily rise above your earnings under the old arrangement." "I see," commented Banneker thoughtfully. "You propose to make it worth my while to walk warily. As the pussy foots it, so to speak." "I ask you to recognize the fairness of the proposition that you conduct your column in the best interests of the concern--which, under the new arrangement, would also be your own best interests." "Clear. Limpidly clear," murmured Banneker. "And if I decline the new basis, what is the alternative?" "Cut down circulation, and with it, loss." "And the other, the real alternative?" queried the imperturbable Banneker. Marrineal smiled, with a touch of appeal in his expression. "Frankness is best, isn't it?" propounded the editor. "I don't believe, Mr. Marrineal, that this paper can get along without me. It has become too completely identified with my editorial idea. On the other hand, I can get along without it." "By accepting the offer of the Mid-West Evening Syndicate, beginning at forty thousand a year?" "You're well posted," said Banneker, startled. "Of necessity. What would you suppose?" "Your information is fairly accurate." "I'm prepared to make you a guarantee of forty thousand, as a minimum." "I shall make nearer sixty than fifty this year." "At the expense of a possible loss to the paper. Come, Mr. Banneker; the fairness of my offer is evident. A generous guarantee, and a brilliant chance of future profits." "_And_ a free hand with my editorials?" "Surely that will arrange itself."