CHAPTER VI
LIFE HANGS ON A WORD
"You are talking like a madman," sneered Hal.
"And next you will be begging like one," returned Tomba, with that same easy but deadly laugh.
Hal, despite his grit, felt a start of terror. Cold sweat was now gathering on his forehead.
"You refused my friendship some days ago," continued Tomba. "You did not know how valuable it might be."
"Can the friendship of a scoundrel like you ever be valuable?" asked Overton.
"In the present case it would be worth a little to you—your life!"
"What did you want of me, when you sought my acquaintance?" demanded Hal.