She was feeling desperate, and she ventured on a bold step. "In their own interest, then, they must be cautious not to harm him. Were they to do so they would lose the money."
"Why?"
"Because I would never pay it."
Mr. Alfred King glanced at her in surprise. All her timid hesitation of manner was gone, the expression of her face had changed to resolute bravery. "I do not pretend to entire acquaintance with the details of this unhappy business, but I understand so much, Mr. King--that this money purchases my brother's safety," she continued. "If that be imperilled, the bargain would be forfeited, and the money retained. The payment or non-payment of this money rests solely with me; and I should not keep faith with the other parties if they did not keep theirs with my dead father."
"There will be no question of their not keeping faith, provided they get their rights, Miss Davenal."
"And their rights--if you mean the money--they shall have; I trust speedily. I shall be only too glad to get the matter over."
"I'm sure I shall be," returned Mr. Kino in a tone that was certainly a hearty one. "It will be well for all parties; very well for Captain Davenal."
Sara turned to the door. Mr. Alfred King took up his hat for the purpose of attending her outside.
"I am glad that you have allowed me this interview, Miss Davenal. It will be so much more satisfactory to these gentlemen now that I have seen you. Dr. Davenal's death, occurring as it did, was most unfortunate. By the way, did he not leave some papers behind him?"
"There are papers in my possession relating to this affair," she answered. "I know what to do with them when the proper time shall come."