“I'll leave you five dollars,” said the voice. “Speak up! Quick!”
“All right,” said Samuel faintly. “I'll give it to you.”
“Mind! No nonsense now!”
“No. Let me out!”
“I'll bat you over the head if you try it,” growled the voice; and the boy stood trembling while the hasp was unfastened and the door was pushed back a little. The light of a lantern flashed in through the crack, blinding him.
“Now hand out the money,” said the stranger, standing at one side for safety.
“Yes,” said Samuel, fumbling with the pin in his waistcoat. “But I can't see to count it.”
“Be quick! I'll count it!”
And so he shoved out the wad. Fingers seized it; and then the light vanished, and he heard the sound of footsteps running.
For a moment he did not understand. Then, “Give me my five dollars!” he yelled, and rolled back the door and leaped out. He was just in time to see the figure with the lantern vanish among the cars up the track.