Ted said reluctantly, "It might be done."
"Good! Take all the time you need and I'll leave the details up to you. If you're caught, of course you'll keep your mouth shut and I'll pay the fine. But I think you'll know how to go about it without getting caught. Deliver both bucks to Crestwood—we'll arrange those details after you get them—and thereafter it's up to me. Good luck."
Ted heard himself saying, "No, Mr. Thornton."
Thornton looked puzzled. "I don't understand."
"I can't do it."
"I've already told you that I'll pay your fine if you're caught."
"It isn't that."
"Then what is it? Does it make any difference if those bucks are shot now or six weeks from now?"
"Yes."
"Why?"