‘Why,’ returned Blodget, with a self-satisfied grin; ‘I have not much cause to grumble. But then I have had to depend upon my own wit and ingenuity.’
‘Well, certainly, Blodget, you are a most perfect villain.’
‘I believe I may lay some slight claim to the character.’
‘Not a very slight one either,’ remarked Jenkins.
‘You pay me a very high compliment.’
‘Ha! ha! ha!’
‘But who among your gang will undertake the murder?’
Jenkins looked round upon his fellows, but in not one of their countenances, reckless and determined as they were, did he notice any signs of a desire to undertake the sanguinary deed.
‘Who among ye is willing to earn this reward?’ he asked.
There was no answer. Blodget became impatient.