And he gave them their money's worth, all right. He flashed a line
of hot illusions that had them groggy in short order.

When the curtain finally fell Skinski was given an ovation, and
when it was all over we backed into his dressing-room and sat
looking at each other.

"That's the last," our star said, after a pause; "and it was a hot
finish all right."

"What do you mean?" I gasped.

"The syndicate has bought my gold mine in the Blue Hills," he
answered calmly.

"And you're going to throw us after making a start like this?"
Bunch almost sobbed.

"Throw nothing!" Skinski came back. "Didn't I tell you once before
that I am for you two guys all the old while--didn't I, Dodey?"

"You betcher sweet!" she answered solemnly.

"Well, that still goes," Skinski went on. "I've sold out a half
interest in my Blue Hill gold mine, and I've got the corn to show
for it."

So saying, he dug up a wad that a hound couldn't leap over.