"I will do it, O cherisher of the poor."
"The price?" The Mussulman named an outrageous figure—and held his breath. The man inquired:
"How long will it take?"
"Seven days; perhaps less."
The sahib frowned, tugged at his yellow beard.
"I must have it in five days."
"Impossible, O Burra Sahib!" A pause. "Unless—of course—"
A smile. "Not another rupee do you get, you old brigand!" he declared good humoredly. "And five days, I say. Settled? Thirty-five rupees extra when it is done, half the price in advance."
He drew from his pocket a wallet and counted out a number of Government of India notes.
"Remember, this is to be quiet," he cautioned. "I will call now and then to see how you are coming on."