"Well, I merely asked out of curiosity," said he. "It's your right to demand payment—and I'm on hand with the money. Make out a release so that I can clear the record. Here's a Denver draft for six thousand dollars—I figure principal and interest at five thousand four hundred and you can have the balance placed to my credit in the bank. I shouldn't continue the loan at its present rate of interest in any case; eight per cent. is too much for money. Besides, I want the ranch clear of incumbrance."
With an expressionless face Menocal gazed at the draft, turned it over, examined the back, then at last laid it down on his desk.
"Isidro," he called to the teller, "make out a mortgage release for the Stevenson place. Copy the description from the mortgage in my file in the vault. Afterward credit six hundred dollars to—What is your name?"
"Lee Bryant."
"Six hundred dollars to Lee Bryant, Isidro. Mr. Bryant will give you his signature." Again facing his visitor, he said, "Do you know that that ranch has no water to speak of? I'm afraid you may not find the property what you expect."
"It has a good appropriation from the Pinas River here."
"Ah, but it can't be used," Menocal exclaimed, with a bland smile.
"I propose to use it."
"What!"
Bryant kept his eyes fixed on the amazed banker's orbs.