"How much money do you want to withdraw your claim from the girl?"
"I ain't thought 'bout no price," replied Lem covertly.
"Then think and listen to me. I have an idea in my mind that we can take the girl away from that house, if not tomorrow, at least in a few days."
Lem's eyes glistened, and Lon placed his clay pipe carefully upon the table.
"Lip it out, then, Mister," said the latter; "and, if me and Lem's agreein' with ye, then we'll help ye."
Everett moved uneasily in the creaking chair. He did not desire to dicker with these ruffians; but it was necessary, if he wished to carry out his plans concerning Fledra.
"The boy is likely to die any moment. The girl is the only one who can help you, Mr. Cronk." Everett had meaning in his voice, and his words made Lem swallow hard.
"I was a thinkin' that myself," ruminated Lon.
"The girl idolizes her brother and Mr. Shellington. If you could make her understand that they would otherwise both be killed through your instrumentality, she would leave the house of her own free will, I'm sure."
Lon, grimacing with delight, bounded up and faced Lem.