“Don’t bandy words with me, boy; I won’t allow it. Give me your money, and that quickly!”
Burnett’s purpose was now plain to Tom. The man wanted to rob him. For that purpose he had inveigled him into this lonely place, where there was little chance of his obtaining assistance. He must depend upon himself, but the chances of success were not flattering.
He was a strong boy, but Mr. Burnett was several inches taller, and had a man’s strength, against which he had not much chance in a struggle. If only somebody would come along. Perhaps, if he could only prolong the conversation, some one might appear. It seemed to be the only thing he could do.
“Do you mean to rob me, Mr. Burnett?” he asked, retreating slightly.
“Well, there is no use in mincing words. That is precisely my intention.”
“And was that the reason why you engaged me to go with you!”
“You’ve hit it, boy. Do you think I am such a fool as to pay you twelve dollars a week just to carry that little satchel?”
Tom began to suspect he was a fool.
It didn’t seem reasonable that any man should be willing to pay such a salary for so small a service.
“You told me the contents were valuable,” he said.