“So you did,” said Ezekiel, brightening up, “and I will pay you what I agreed if you keep your promise.”
“Friend Mason,” responded Luke, “I am playing for higher stakes than five dollars. All depends on my keeping this outlaw secure. I mean to do it.”
Having settled matters they went downstairs again, where they found their prisoner waiting impatiently for their reappearance.
“Well,” he said, “have you decided to let me go?”
“I am sorry to disappoint you, my friend,” answered Luke, “but I don’t see my way clear to do so.”
“I promised you a thousand dollars if you would release me.”
“Yes, but I haven’t any confidence in that promise.”
“You need not fear. In three days I would bring or send the money to you here.”
“Couldn’t you oblige me with a check on the bank where you keep your money?” asked Luke smiling.
“I keep my money in several banks,” returned the outlaw.