Duero extended an arm to withhold the others and said, coolly, "Double it!"
The veedor staggered back with the bag clasped in his arms. "Wha—what?" he gasped.
"I say, double it!" replied Duero, with force.
Rogelio stared at him with fallen chin.
"Double it!" repeated the soldier, and returned the stare fixedly.
"Fiends!" shrieked the veedor. "Man, thou 'rt mad! What was our bargain?"
"That acquitteth the bargain, Señor, but there are damages."
"Damages! What damages?"
"Why, to our several consciences, Veedor. Mine, I'll swear, hath stood a wear and tear that hath left not remnants enough to equip a dog! 'T is a most villanous piece of villany, and promiseth to grow worse when our hands are out of it. By the crucifix! Señor Rogelio, my soul will need masses for this affair, and I mean to provide for them. You will make it double, or the girl goeth to Xauxa this night; and I'll have the Señor Inca notified—or mayhap, Mendoza."
"Scoundrels, bandits, thieves!" screamed Rogelio, his face purple and hands shaking. Duero took a step toward him with a movement to his sword-hilt, and the victim retreated to the wall, hugging his gold and rolling his eyes in terror. The soldier surveyed him with contempt.