"I can't do it, on short notice; you will have to give me time. Will you force me to the wall?"
"You can pay or you cannot pay, and in the latter case you are at the wall already. There is nothing for me to do in the matter; I must have what is due me."
"Give me a week."
"Impossible! Think of the loss to me."
"Then give me three days—two days, one! I tell you I am unable to meet your demand."
"You must close your doors, then."
"And that will ruin me."
"You are ruined already."
"And you will not spare me?"
"How can I, and why should I?"