"Why should I call help, since you say I've nothing to fear?" she said, trying to speak coolly, but still watching the carefully held pistol.
"Nothing to fear if you do as I say."
"And what do you say?"
The masked figure came a little nearer. "I say——" he began, but Iris interrupted.
"Stay where you are! I am not afraid of your pistol; your voice tells me you would not shoot a defenceless woman, but I command you to keep your distance."
"My voice belies me, then," he returned coolly. "I'd shoot you quicker'n a wink, were it necessary to make my getaway. But, listen; you will be immediately unmolested, if you give me what I have come here to get. I advise you to give it willingly, but if not—then I must get it as best I can."
"Take off your mask, won't you?" and Iris' tone was almost formal. "I know you, don't I?"
"You do not, and something tells me you never will. Pardon me, if I retain my protecting decoration——"
"Scarcely a decoration," murmured Iris, who was striving to think quickly what to do.
"Thank you; that implies your belief in a fair share of good looks on my part. But that's a matter of no moment. And time passes. I am here to ask you for a matter of no great moment after all. I want the pin that your late aunt left you in her will."