"Oh, come, Andy, what's the use," placated Langham. "I'm sorry if your
feelings are hurt."

"It's time you and I had a settlement, Marsh. I want you to take up
those notes of yours."

"I haven't the money!" said Langham.

"Well, I can't wait on you any longer."

"I don't see but that you'll have to," retorted Langham.

"I'm going to offer a few inducements for haste, Marsh. I'm going to
make you see that it's worth your while to find that money for me
quick,--understand? You owe me about two thousand dollars; are you fixed
to turn it in by the end of the month?"

The gambler bit off the end of a fresh cigar and held it a moment
between his fingers as he gazed at Langham, waiting for his reply. The
latter shook his head but said nothing.

"Well, then, by George, I am going to sue you!"

"Because I can't protect you longer!"

"Oh, to hell with your protection! Go dig up the money for me or I'll
raise a fuss here that'll hurt more than one reputation! The notes are
good, ain't they?"

"They are good when I have the money to meet them."