"We can get on without them, but we are willing to pay a reasonable price for them. We know that they are valuable to a certain extent."
"How?"
"You remember your conversation with Stark Coleman the day you threatened him with certain letters you had of his and of other prominent citizens here. Miss Adams heard what you said on that occasion."
"So she's added eavesdropping to her other accomplishments?" he exclaimed venomously.
"Not eavesdropping, but Coleman left the door slightly ajar; she had come back up here to get some papers from Judge Regis, and, hearing such interesting conversation going on, naturally she listened. What will you take for these letters?" she demanded.
"I'd have to think about it," he said, sitting down.
"I'll buy them now or not at all'" she said.
"Aim to publish them?" he asked, grinning. He was beginning to be in a very good humour.
"That's our affair, but I don't mind telling you that we do not intend to publish them."
"And if I refuse?" he held out.