Sandford found his man firmer than he had expected. He changed his tactics.
"Fletcher, as you can't do what I want, how much will you give outright for the little obligation? You shall have it for fifteen hundred dollars. Come, now, that's reasonable."
"Reasonable as the fellow who puts a pistol to your head on a dark night in the middle of Cambridge bridge."
"Tut, tut! Don't talk of highway-robbery! I think I am letting you off cheap."
"How do you suppose I can raise fifteen hundred dollars?"
"That is your affair."
"You are as cruel as a bloodhound after a runaway nigger."
"I have once or twice remonstrated against your use of harsh words."
"What's the use of being mealy-mouthed? I owe you five hundred dollars. Every dollar beyond that you get from me you rob me of; and it doesn't matter whether it is a pistol or a writ that you threaten me with."
"You persist in a violent tone."