“That may scarcely be,” said the smith, “for this gentleman—this considerate Master Gray, must get hence again with all expedition.”
“There will be time, then,” said Gray, “and a day to spare.”
“Be it so, then,” said the smith.
“To-night at the Smithy,” again said Learmont.
“At what hour?”
“After midnight. I will tap thrice at your door. Reflect upon my offer, Gray; ’tis a large sum.”
Gray turned his small cunning eyes upon Learmont as he replied,—
“There is an old fable, of the Goose and the Golden Eggs. You cannot expect me to kill my goose so soon.”
“Nor can you expect me to comply constantly with extortionate demands,” replied Learmont, trembling with passion.
“We will settle all to-night,” said the smith. “Do not fail us, sir.”