“Wal, we’ll sell elsewhere.”

“One moment. You must consider the fact that up-river claims involve great expenditure in working.”

“Cut all that,” retorted Jim. “What do you offer?”

“I should recommend my company to buy at half a million.”

“Nothin’ doin’,” ejaculated Jim. “Sorry you had the journey for nix. Anyway, we’re glad to meet you.”

Stevens gulped. He began to realize he was dealing with a “hard” man.

“See here,” said Jim, “we’re in a hurry, and will sacrifice a pile to git this deal fixed. But you gotta raise that offer.”

“Very well, let us say $600,000.”

“No.”

“It’s the best I can do.” 305