"Oh, make yourself easy about that, my dear young friend," exclaimed the inventor. "I can refill the gas-bag and that without delay, but—but—well, to be frank with you, how much is it worth to you if I do so?"
Frank was amazed at the sudden proposal and no less astonished at the
Spaniard's boast that he could inflate the dirigible.
"What do you mean?" he asked. "I confess I don't altogether understand you."
"I thought I had made myself clear," was the reply. "I have changed my mind since I spoke to you last about the treasure, and now I feel that I am entitled to some of it if I can refill the dirigible."
"Why, yes," said Frank, with a laugh; "of course you are IF you really can."
"Would five thousand dollars' worth of ornaments or doubloons seem too much?" ventured the Spaniard.
Frank broke into a loud laugh.
"Why, no; you shall have that, and gladly, if you think you can help us to get out of this place."
"Thank you," said the inventor, quite seriously, "I don't want more than my just dues, but I certainly am entitled to that."
"Oh, certainly," laughed Frank, much amused at the man's deprecatory manner. "What is your plan?"