Mr. Livingstone arose as though about to leave.
"One moment, Mr. Livingstone; the jewels are not mine, yet. I have not paid you for yours."
"Oh, between gentlemen there is no hurry about such matters."
"Between gentlemen it may be as you say. But you said this was to be strictly in accordance with business methods. I prefer to pay at once. Here is my certified check. I will also ask you to sign this receipt."
Mr. Livingstone seemed to hesitate for a moment. Mr. Barnes wondered why? He sat at the desk, however, and, after reading the receipt, he signed it, and took the check, which he placed in his pocketbook, saying:
"Of course we will be businesslike, if you insist, though I did not anticipate that you would take me so literally. That being over, Mr. Mitchel, I will bid you good morning."
"You may go, Mr. Livingstone, when the transaction is over, but not before."
"What do you mean?" demanded Mr. Livingstone aggressively, as he turned and faced Mr. Mitchel, who now stood close beside him.
"I mean that you have accepted my money. Now I wish you to give me the opal."
"I do not understand. There are your opals, just where you placed them on the table."