"WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?"
"Neither can I. So hand over your money." It looked as if Brand were deceived, and that Gerald might save the more considerable sum in his vest-pocket. But to part with it too easily might excite suspicion.
"Mr. Brand," said Gerald, "I appeal to you once more. Let me go free; or, at any rate, don't take all my money."
"All your money is very little. I thought you had more. Fifty dollars will hardly pay me for the trouble I have taken."
"I didn't ask you to take any trouble. You would have done better to select some other victim."
"I thought you would be the easiest to deal with," returned Brand, coolly. "But we are wasting time. Produce your money."
Gerald drew out his wallet. Fortunately for him the contents were in bills of small denominations, so that, though only representing a small sum, they made quite a goodly show.
"Ah!" said Brand, in a tone of satisfaction, as he held out his hand, "that is something like. It is like the sight of water to a thirsty traveler."
As he spoke he deliberately put the wallet in his pocket.
"But," said Gerald, in apparent alarm, "if you take all my money how am I to get home?"