"My side of the question! Is there any other side?"
"There may be."
"I am disappointed in you, Motor Matt. Such talk is foolish—almost worthy of Bunce, here."
"There is something else, too, Grattan," went on Matt, "something, I suppose, you will appreciate even less than what I have just said."
"I don't think there can be anything I would appreciate less. However, let's hear what it is."
"Being true to a trust," answered Matt sturdily. "Even if a Chinaman trusts you, standing fast and not betraying his confidence."
Bunce snickered, and Pardo laughed outright. Only Grattan kept a serious face and peered steadily at Matt.
"Yes," murmured Grattan, "there is something in that. It is not for me—I have turned my back on such principles—but you are young and quite likely you have started right. That, however, does not affect our present situation. It is impossible for you to remain true to the trust the cowardly Tsan Ti reposes in you. I have you in my power. It is night, and the Iris is in the middle of the Hudson River. The ruby is tied up in a handkerchief in your coat pocket. I tell you I want it."
The voice was imperious, compelling. Motor Matt still passively faced Grattan.
"Oh, shiver me!" grunted Bunce. "Let's lay hold of him an' take it."