“I took desperate chances last night,” Collins went on, “hoping to make a strike in that cursed place and win back enough to set myself right at the bank. I failed, and but for you I should have blown my brains out there. I have clung to your promise to help me, but it seems too good to be true. I cannot understand how a stranger can do such a thing.
“As I have thought it over this forenoon I have turned hot and cold by turns. First I would be buoyed with hope, and then my heart sank in despair as I realized the impossibility of receiving aid in such a manner. I have feared that you simply gave me the promise in order to keep me from killing myself at the time. I have been in terror lest you would not be here when I called. And now I am shaking with the apprehension that somehow I misunderstood you. Did you offer me the money, Mr. Merriwell? For mercy’s sake say you did, and that you have it ready for me!”
Collins seemed on the point of flinging himself on his knees before Frank.
“Steady, my boy,” said Merry, with a reassuring smile. “I agreed to let you have the money.”
A cry of joy broke from the pale lips of the youth.
“And you have it—here?”
“Not now—not yet.”
“But great heavens! the danger—I have told you of the danger! I must have the money right away—if at all. My mother——”
“I am doing everything I can to get it. Unfortunately, it is far more money than I have of my own. I have sent messages to my father, but he sailed on my steam-yacht yesterday. The moment I can reach him I can make arrangements that will bring the money into my hands in a hurry.”
“And that may be too late!” groaned Collins.