"You'd better see Mr. Simmons and fix it with him."
"I don't want to see him."
"You will have to see him or send the money."
The two boys finally called upon Jacob Simmons and entered into negotiations.
"I ought to have more than five hundred," said the latter.
"How can I give it to you if I haven't got it?" asked Matthew.
"Your father is rich, and could give me ten times as much and not miss it."
"Oh, don't tell him. I will pay you what I can."
"If you had the money I would take it and say nothing more to him or any one; but I must have it or hand you over to the sheriff."
Matthew shuddered at this thought. He was in a dilemma, and hardly knew which way to turn.