But, understand me distinctly, I only ask
it as a loan, and come prepared to give you the fullest security."
As Mr. Martin said this, he drew a package of papers from his pocket.
"Here are the necessary documents," he added.
"Ten thousand dollars! Why, my dear sir, a sum like this is not to be
picked up in the streets."
"I am very well aware of that," was the cool answer. "Had such been
the case, I never would have troubled you with procuring the sum; nor
would I have gone to the expense and fatigue of a long journey."
"You certainly ought to know enough of business, Martin, to be aware
that ten thousand dollars is not always to be commanded, even by the
wealthiest, at a moment's notice."
"I do not ask the whole sum in cash," replied Martin. "Three or four
thousand in ready money will do. Your notes at four and six months
will answer very well for the balance."
But we will not record further what passed between these two men. It
was all in vain that Jasper strove to escape; his adversary was too
powerful. Ere they separated, Martin had in his possession, in cash
and promissory notes, the sum of ten thousand dollars!
Already were the ill-gotten riches of Leonard Jasper taking to
themselves wings. Unhappy man! How wretched was he during that
and many succeeding days! Rolling, so to speak, in wealth, he yet
possessed not life's highest blessing, a truly contented mind, flowing
from conscious rectitude and an abiding trust in Providence.
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