"Then," continued Paul, "you will have no hesitation in accepting the offer I am about to make you."
"An offer?—you make me?" said the old man, suspiciously.
"Yes, sir. I offer you, in Mr. Bradford's name, five thousand dollars for your half of the mine."
"You offer me—five thousand dollars!" ejaculated Fox, staring at Paul in surprise and consternation.
"Exactly so."
"When I tell you it is too much?"
"Yes, I am offering you a good bargain."
"Do you mean to throw away Mr. Bradford's money?" gasped Fox.
"No; but if Mr. Bradford finds fault with me, I will stand the blame."
"I don't understand this," said Mr. Fox, nervously. "You are joking with me."