“What do you mean?”
“Hand over your pocketbook, old man, and be quick about it.”
“I presume you are joking,” said the professor nervously.
“You won't find it much of a joke!”
“Are you a—highwayman?” gasped the professor.
The other gave a quick, short laugh.
“You may call me that if you like,” he said.
Now, Professor Robinson had, as was natural, a decided objection to surrendering his money, and, though there seemed little chance of producing an effect on the mind of the outlaw, ventured to remonstrate.
“My friend,” he said, “if you are in want, I will lend, nay, give you five dollars, out of a spirit of humanity; but I trust you will not jeopardize your liberty by descending to robbery.”
“Five dollars won't do, old man! Hand over your wallet, with all there is in it, and dry up that Sunday-school talk.”