[CHAPTER XVIII.]
THE THIRD STROKE.
Deadwood Dick was as inexorable as fate.
This the rascal knew, and he did not dare lift his head to ask further mercy.
"Well what shall it be?" asked Bristol. "Will you sign all over to me, or shall the expose be made here and now? I give you the choice."
"You will give me a chance?"
"I give you that choice. I intend to crush you by degrees."
"And if I do as you say—"
"I will give you a respite of twelve hours."
"I will do it. Cashier, tell that man the bank has to suspend. Put up a notice to close the doors."