"Fifty ounces; would that be too much?" the bandit ventured.
"Certainly not, if the thing be worth it."
"Then," Kidd exclaimed, joyfully, "that is understood, fifty ounces."
"I repeat, if it be worth it."
"Oh, you shall judge for yourself," he remarked, rubbing his hands.
"I ask nothing better but to buy, and to prove to you that I have no intention of cheating you," he added, as he opened a drawer and took out a rather heavy purse, "here is the amount."
And the Captain made two piles each of twenty-five ounces, exactly between the pistols. At the sight of the gold the bandit's eyes sparkled like those of a wild beast.
"¡Rayo de Dios! Captain," he exclaimed; "There is a pleasure in treating with you. I will remember it another time."
"I ask nothing better, Master Kidd. Now speak, I am listening."
"Oh, I have not much to say; but you will judge whether it is important."