human
Well, I'm here. It was John's voice, an ill-humoured voice, too.
gpt
But this is the last time, Celeste. These meetings are dangerous.
human
Yes--when you talk so loud. Her soft voice scarcely reached the listeners.
gpt
But this time there was a good reason. She laughed.
human
You didn't think it was love, did you, deary?
gpt
Oh, cut that out! disgustedly.
human
I have been foolish enough to satisfy even your vanity. You want more money, I suppose.
gpt
Well, of course, her voice hardening.
human
Naturally I feel that I should share in your good fortune. But the amount I want now, and must have to-night--to-night, John Cavendish--is not altogether for myself. I've heard from the West.
gpt
My God! Has he been located?
human
Yes, and is safe for the present. Here, read this telegram. It's not very clear, but Beaton wants money and asks me to bring it.
gpt
You? Why does he need you?
human
Lack of nerve, I guess; he's out of his element in that country. If it was the Bowery he'd do this sort of job better. Anyhow, I'm going, and I want a roll. We can't either of us afford to lie down now.
gpt
Money, he ejaculated fiercely.
human
That is all I hear. Enright has held me up something fierce, and you never let me alone. Suppose I say I haven't got it.
gpt
Why, then, I'd laugh at you, that's ail. You may not love me any more, my dear, but surely you have no occasion to consider me a fool. I endeavour to keep posted on what the court is doing in our case; I am naturally interested, you know. You were at the Commercial National Bank this afternoon.
human
How the devil did you know that?
gpt
I play my cards safe, she laughed mirthlessly.
human
I could even tell you the size of your check, and that the money is still on your person. You intended to place it in a safe-deposit box and keep it hidden for your own use.
gpt
You hellion, you! Cavendish's voice rose high, then later Miss Donovan heard him say more softly:
human
How much do you want?
gpt
Ten thousand. I'm willing enough to split fifty-fifty. This Colorado job is getting to be expensive, deary. I wouldn't dare draw on you through the banks.
human
Celeste, are you trimming me again?
gpt
Don't be a fool! came back in subdued tones.
human
Do you think that telegram is a fake? My Gawd--that is what I want money for! Moreover, I should think you would be tickled, Johnnie boy, to get me out of town--and the price is so low.
gpt
God, things are going great.
human
You've got to tell me what you're going to do with the money,