“Look here,” said the outlaw, after a pause, and in a milder tone, “I have a special attachment for that weapon, or I would drop the whole matter and buy another one. But this was given me by an old pal, now dead, and I set great store by it. Professor, although the revolver is mine by rights, I will waive all that and offer you twenty-five dollars for it. That will pay you for all the trouble I have put you to.”
Professor Robinson, though not a mean man, was fond of money, and this offer tempted him. It would be getting twenty-five dollars for nothing, and that was a piece of good luck not likely to present itself every day.
“I accept your offer,” he said gladly.
“But I don't,” put in Walter, calmly. “Allow me to say that the professor has no claim to the weapon. I took it with my own hand, and it has never been in his possession.”
“All right! Then I'll give you twenty-five dollars for it.”
“I decline your offer.”
“I'd like to wring your neck, you young thief!”
“I have no doubt you would.”
“Once more, and for the last time, will you give me back that revolver?”
“I have told you when and on what conditions I would surrender it.”