"There's been only one man in danger of that death around here. His
name is Hoff."

The redoubtable colonel gasped, and leaned back against a rock.

"You'll be relieved to learn that he's safe. Now, to answer your
question: No, I don't propose to hold up two men for anything. I
propose to deal with the president and treasurer of the North Pinto
Gold Mining Company. As a practical mining man you will appreciate
the absolute necessity of water in your operations. The nearest
available supply is some ten hours distant. Before you could reach
it I fear that--er--your company would--er--have gone out of
existence. Therefore I am fortunate in being able to offer you a
small supply which I will put on the market at the low rate of ten
thousand dollars. I may add that--er--certified checks will--er--be
accepted."

For two hours the colonel, with the occasional objurgatory
assistance of his partner, talked, begged argued, threatened, and
even wept. By the end of that time his tongue was making sounds
like a muffled castanet, and his resolution was scorched out of him.

"You've got us," he croaked. "Here's your checks. Give me the
water."

"In proper and legal form, please," said Average Jones.

He produced a contract and a fountain-pen. The contract was duly
signed and witnessed. It provided for the transfer of the water, in
consideration of one revolver and ten thousand dollars in checks.