"You're after money," the tall, lank neighbor said. "I'll tell you how we can make some—make a lot."
"Well?" said Lopez, still far from convinced, and taking things easily.
Hardy spoke more rapidly. "If the mortgage I hold on this property isn't paid by eight o'clock to-night, it becomes mine. Keep that paper here until eight o'clock, and I'll give you ten thousand dollars!" He watched the effect of his words on the Mexican.
Pell spoke before the bandit. "Why, damn you—" he began, to Hardy.
But the latter paid no attention to his insult. He faced Lopez, as though he were the only person in the room. "What do you say, is it a go?"
"Wait a minute!" Pell cried.
Lopez faced him. "Yes?" And puffed his cigarette.
Pell addressed both the bandit and Jasper Hardy. "I'll make a better offer. Keep him here until eight o'clock, and I'll give you twenty thousand dollars!"
Lopez was considering, "H'm," he murmured, and stroked his chin.