The stranger said it was rough. He didn't nod this time, but used his voice. Encouraged by the agreement with his views, Bowlder urged the return of his wife's jewellery.
“Just gimme back what's hers,” said Bowlder, “and you can keep the rest. That'll let me out with her, and I don't care for the balance.”
But the man of midnight stoutly objected. It would be a dead loss of $200, he said, and worse yet, it would be unprofessional.
Bowlder thought deeply a moment. Then he took a new tack.
“Any 'bjections to taking a drink with me?” he asked.
“None in the world!” said the burglar.
Bowlder explored his coat pocket for a bottle he'd brought home to restore him after his sleep. He proffered the bottle to the burglar.
“After you is manners!” said that person.
Bowlder drank and then the burglar did the same.
“You a Republican?” demanded Bowlder suddenly. “I s'pose even burglars have their politics!”