"You couldn't wear patent-leather shoes in Colorado."
"Then I'll give it up if you say so. To tell the truth, I am better fixed than you would suppose. I have an income of a thousand dollars a year, paid me quarterly by the trustees of my late uncle's estate, but the next payment won't come due for a month. I must tide over till then. That is why I offer you this watch for fifty dollars."
"I shouldn't think you would like to make such a sacrifice."
"Oh, well, I need the money. Besides, what is my loss is your gain."
"You seem to take matters philosophically."
"That's my way. Seriously, though, it will be a great favor to me if you take the watch. Fifty dollars isn't much, but with economy it will carry me through till my next payment."
"Well, if you put it on that ground, I don't know but I will oblige you."
The Colorado man took from his pocket a large wallet, evidently stuffed with bills, and was about to consummate the bargain when Rupert rose from his seat hastily. He felt that it was about time for him to take a hand in the transaction.
"Mr. Packard," he said, "you'll excuse my interfering, but I advise you not to buy that watch."
Clarence Clayton looked up quickly. He recognized Rupert only too well, and would liked to have pitched him into the bay. What was to be done? He determined to brazen it out.