"As a hostage you are of no value, but the lady is."
"Well, again?"
"What is it?"
"If I pay you the amount you said was to be sent by me, will you let the lady go?"
"When will you pay it?"
"Now."
"Do so, and I will let the lady go free."
"No, no, sir, you have not the money," cried Celeste to Harding.
"Yes, miss, I can make it good, for I have a little more saved up than he demands, and I can start over again to lay up a fortune, you see, for I am young yet."
"I will not consent to that, except that I return you the money, my kind friend, for I am well able to do so. I will recompense you, by paying you back my ransom."