"Don't be a fool!" said Cates.
There was some more talk, and then Sargent said:
"We'll withdraw this attachment, but you, Merriwell, must sign a written pledge to pay us our salaries in full at the end of the third act."
"I shall do nothing of the sort," said Frank, with quiet determination. "As I have to play a part, I shall make no settlement with the manager of the theater till after the show is over. I will agree then to pay you whatever I can."
"That's no go. We're not bluffed that way."
"But," put in Cates, quickly, "we'll take half what is due us, if you'll agree to that."
Sargent muttered something, but both watched Frank to see what he would say to the comedian's proposal.
"That will not be treating the others fair," said Merry. "You will be receiving more than they, and that is not a square deal."
"Well, it's the best we'll do," snapped Sargent. "If you won't agree to that, we'll break up the whole business."
"And I'll thrash both of you as soon as I can get you by yourselves," promised Havener, holding himself in check with difficulty. "I'd like to begin on the job now!"