CHAPTER XXX
THE HILLCREST COMPANY, LIMITED
“Don’t sign it!” shrieked ’Phemie, seeing Aunt Jane, her bonnet on as usual, with a pen in her hand.
“For the good land’s sake, child! how you scart me,” complained the old lady.
“Don’t sign anything, Aunt!” urged ’Phemie. “That man is trying to cheat you,” and she pointed a scornful finger at Professor Spink.
“What do you mean, girl?” demanded the other man present, who was sitting next to Mrs. Hammond. He looked like what he was–a shyster lawyer.
“This girl is crazy,” snarled Spink, glaring at the party of young people.
“So are we all, then,” Harris Colesworth responded. “I assure you, Mrs. Hammond, that these men are trying to trick you.”
“I dunno you, young man; but I do know my own mind. This man, Spink, has finally made me a good offer for Hillcrest Farm.”
“And if you don’t sign that paper at once, ma’am,” suggested the lawyer, softly, “the deal is off.”
“That’s right,” declared Spink, rising. “I’ve made my last offer–take it or leave it.”