This was true, and she was startled to find how much this man knew.
“Do you know my husband?” she asked.
“Yes, I know him. His name is Ephraim Gregory. He had some money paid him yesterday and it is here. I don't know where it is, but you do. Get it, and be quick about it!”
Mrs. Gregory saw by this time that her visitor was a desperate villain and that she was in a critical position. He might, since he knew so much, know the amount of money which her husband had entrusted to her for safekeeping. If she could buy him off for five dollars she would do so.
“Will you go if I give you five dollars?” she asked.
He laughed.
“No, I won't. Why should I take five dollars when you have a hundred here?”
She turned pale. The worst was true, then. This man had in some mysterious manner discovered the exact sum which she had in charge. Why had not her husband kept it in his own possession? It would have been more prudent.
“I can't give you the money,” she said, pale but resolute.
“Oh, yes, you will!” he answered mockingly.