"Shakespeare?" said Mr. Arkalion realizing that most quotes of lasting importance came from the bard.
"Sophocles," said Smith. "But, no matter. I will take young Alaric's place for ten million dollars."
Motives always troubled Mr. Arkalion, and thus he pursued what might have been a dangerous conversation. "You'll never get a chance to spend it on the Nowhere Journey."
"Let me worry about that."
"No one ever returns."
"My worry, not yours."
"It is forever—as if you dropped out of existence. Alaric is so young."
"I have always gambled, Mr. Arkalion. If I do not return in five years, you are to put the money in a trust fund for certain designated individuals, said fund to be terminated the moment I return. If I come back within the five years, you are merely to give the money over to me. Is that clear?"
"Yes."
"I'll want it in writing, of course."