"Well, maybe I'd take twenty-five dollars for it just as it stands and no questions ast. How'd that strike you?"
"I'll take it. That seems a most reasonable figure."
"Well, fork over the twenty-five then, and the deal's closed."
"I'd have to send you the money to-morrow—I mean to-day. You see, the thief took all my cash when he took my overcoat."
"Did, huh?"
"Yes, that's the present condition of things. Very annoying, isn't it? But I'll take your address. I'm a lawyer in business in Broad Street, and as soon as I reach my office I'll send the amount by messenger."
"Aw, to hell with you and your troubles! I might a-knowed you was some new kind of a panhandler when you come a-snortin' in my ear that-a-way. Better beat it while the goin's good. You're in the wrong neighbourhood to be springin' such a gag as this one you just now sprang on me. Anyhow, I've wasted enough time on the likes of you."
He was ten feet away when Mr. Leary, his wits sharpened by his extremity, clutched at the last straw.
"One moment," he nervously begged. "Did I understand you to say your name was Cassidy?"