Later in the day, Peel entered Robinson’s room, and approaching Conley, who was seated in the “lookout seat,” near a table where a game of faro was progressing, said to him,
“Dave, I wish you’d lend me twenty-five dollars.”
“I’ll not do it,” replied Conley.
“Why?”
“I’ve no money to loan.”
“I don’t consider it a loan,” said Peel, looking steadfastly at Conley. Then, as if influenced by a recollection of his own kindness to the man who refused him, he exclaimed, “Great God! is it possible that there is not a man in the country who will lend me twenty-five dollars?”
Robinson, who was seated by the table drawer, now drew it out, and, grasping a handful of coin, threw it eagerly upon the table.
“Here,” said he, “Mr. Peel, I’ll loan you twenty-five dollars, or as much more as you want. You’re entirely welcome to it.”
Peel turned, and fixing upon Robinson a look of mingled surprise and gratitude, responded, “Sir, you’re a stranger to me. We never spoke together before, but I will gratefully accept your kindness, and thank you. All I want is twenty-five dollars, and I’ll pay you as soon as I can.” He then picked up five half-eagles, and placed them in the palm of his hand.
“Take more, Peel,” said Robinson. “Take a hundred, or whatever you want.”