The Landowning Classes

After Mr. Geddes gives him a credit reference, John goes to the bank in Blackwater to ask about buying land at Beecher's Hope. A clerk directs him to Ansel Atherton's office. John knocks on the outside wall, and Atherton asks what he wants. John says he needs a loan for the property. When Atherton asks his surname, John gives his real name, then tries to pass it off by saying people locally call him "Milton" as a joke. Pressed on who those people are, he names Mr. Geddes, his employer.

Atherton treats the request with open contempt. Embarrassed, John apologizes and turns to leave, but Atherton calls him back and asks him to sit down. He says the bank might be prepared to make an arrangement, though John's money and credit give it little reason to offer favorable terms. Geddes could make the difference by guaranteeing the debt or assisting with the payments. Atherton also makes clear that the bank will take the land back if John does not meet the agreement.

Atherton tells John to go and inspect the Beecher's Hope property himself. Squatters are living there, and John will need to see the place before the deal can proceed. Atherton says he will contact Geddes and settle the details of the loan arrangement with him. Once that is done, John can return to Blackwater and complete the paperwork.