“It doesn’t do to carry imposition too far. I flatter myself I know when and where to draw the line.”
“I’ve some plans in hand, and must have five hundred pounds to carry them out. Not a penny less will be of any use to me.”
“But I tell you I can’t give it to you.”
“Then I must get it from another source, that’s all,” he declared, selecting a cigarette from his case, and assuming an air of unconcern.
“Come, enough of this,” she exclaimed petulantly; “I cannot stay here half the night arguing with you.” Putting her hand into the breast of her dress she drew forth some bank-notes. There were four, each for fifty pounds. “Will you take these or not?” she asked, offering them to him.
“Don’t I tell you they’re no use? I must have twice as much.”
“Then, I’m sorry I can’t oblige you, and will wish you bon soir,” she replied, with a mock curtsey.
“Why do you play with me like this?” he cried in anger, gripping her roughly by the arm. “I want five hundred pounds, and I’ll have it before you leave this place.”
“How is that possible when I do not possess it? Do talk sense.”
“I’m talking sense. You have it; you can give it me if you choose.”