"No, and I sha'n't permit you to rob me either."
"Listen to me!" said Denton, rapidly. "I am a desperate man, as I have already told you. I have escaped from prison, but I have used up what money I had. I must have more. I don't forget that you were the means of sending me to prison, but if you will give me all the money you have about you, I will let you go this time."
"Suppose I refuse?" said Paul.
"Then I will strangle you first, and rob you afterward," answered Luke Denton, wickedly.
As he spoke he moved nearer the bed, but he paused suddenly when Paul drew a revolver from beneath his pillow, and pointed it at him.
"Stop there, Mr. Luke Denton," he said, firmly. "I should be very unwilling to shoot you, but I mean to defend myself. One step nearer and I fire!"
"You wouldn't dare do it," said Denton, chafing with disappointment.
"You'd better not take the risk."
"I was only joking," said Denton. "I thought I would see if I could scare you. I'm going to bed."