“Stop!” commanded the Tiger. “Do you think I am a fool?”
Felipe stopped, and the Tiger went slowly over to him, keeping an eye on us all the while. He shoved Felipe aside and picked up the money box. It was nearly empty and the Tiger threw it aside with a curse.
“Were you expecting me?”
He shoved his evil face close to Felipe, as he spoke, and Felipe recoiled in terror.
“But I told you that we are poor men, señor,” protested Felipe.
“Bah!”
The Tiger drew a gun and struck Felipe a slashing blow on the head. Felipe crumpled at his feet. It was a dastardly thing to do, and I sprang to my feet, but the unwavering muzzle of the gun pointed straight at my middle and I sat down again.
Felipe tried to get to his feet, but the Tiger kicked him viciously.
“Fool! I said I wanted gold—not a few mangy silver coins.”
“He has no gold,” said Ramon softly. “He does not lie, señor”