This was Rolandsen all over. “No,” said Mack. “I won’t ask you to do that. It will be hard enough for you as it is, my good man. But you might write a declaration here.” And Mack nodded towards Frederik’s seat.
Rolandsen set to work. Mack was thinking deeply the while. Here was all this serious business turning out for the best. It would cost him something, but the money would be well spent; his renown would now be spread far and wide.
Mack read over the declaration, and said, “Yes, that’s good enough. I don’t intend to make use of it, of course....”
“That’s as you please,” said Rolandsen.
“And I do not propose to say anything about our interview to-day. It can remain between ourselves.”
“Then I shall have to tell people myself,” said Rolandsen. “The priest’s letter said particularly that we should confess.”
Mack opened his fire-proof safe and took out a bundle of notes. Here was his chance to show what sort of man he was. And who could know that a master seiner from a stranger boat was down in the bay waiting for those very notes before he could sail?
Mack counted out four hundred Daler, and said, “I don’t mean to insult you, but it’s my way to keep to my word. I have promised a reward of four hundred Daler, which is now due to you.”
Rolandsen walked towards the door. “I deserve your contempt,” said he.
“Contempt!” said Mack. “Let me tell you....”