"I want the interest money to-day," said he, sharply as he stepped up to the counter, behind which the landlord stood.

"Can't you wait till next week? When these New York folks leave, I shall have more money than I have now," replied Mr. Bennington, who, knowing just what his hard creditor wanted, was disposed to thorn him a little.

"I must have the money to-day," added Squire Moses more mildly, for he began to feel that the business was in just the condition he wished it to be.

"It has been a pretty tight time with me for money," pleaded Mr. Bennington.

"It has with everybody; but if you can't pay me my interest money, say so."

"But suppose I can't pay it; you won't be hard with me—will you?"

"I expect folks to do just what they agree to do. I don't want any long stories about it," added Squire Moses, who was secretly happy.

"Waiting till next week won't make any difference with you."

"I think I know my own business best. I understand you to say you can't pay. Here is Jones, and in his presence, as a witness, I demand the money."

"Just so," replied the landlord; "but if—"