Hugo, who was a man of consummate meanness, could not bear to part with so large a sum of money. Now that he had obtained all that he desired, and believed that his young cousin, the only possible obstacle between him and his uncle's wealth, was out of the way, he thought he might safely repudiate the bargain, and send off Fitzgerald penniless, or at any rate with a trifle.
"You seem to be dreaming, or romancing," he said coldly.
"Do you mean to say you did not promise me the money?" he demanded passionately.
"I never did; of course not. I have never had any dealings with you."
Fitzgerald clenched his hand together until the nails entered the flesh. Had he committed a detestable crime for nothing?
"Look here, Mr. Hugo Richmond," he said, passionately. "This won't do! You are not going to use me and then throw me off. Pay me this money, or I will report you."
"You had better reflect before you try it," said Hugo, composedly. "I shall accuse you of black-mail, and your charge would never be believed."
"Wouldn't it? You may find yourself bitterly mistaken."
"You must remember that in charging yourself with murder you will run the risk of the hangman's rope. Even if the charge could do me any harm you would probably lose your own life."
This was no doubt true, and Fitzgerald stared at the man who had tempted him to a crime and now threatened him with the consequences while he held back the reward, with stupefaction.
"You see your plan won't work," said Hugo, smoothly.
"I believe you are a fiend incarnate!" exclaimed Fitzgerald, feeling baffled and defeated.
"Really, I don't much care what you think of me."
"Do you mean to send me away penniless?" asked Fitzgerald, hoarsely.
"No, I will take pity on your necessities and give you fifty dollars. I don't recognize any claims you may pretend to have on me, but I will help you so far."
"Give me the fifty dollars, then!" said Fitzgerald, sullenly.
Hugo drew from his wallet five ten-dollar bills, and handed them to his companion.
"Now," said he, "I must wish you good morning. Don't come in my way again!"
As Hugo walked back to the house Fitzgerald looked after him.
"This will prove a bad morning's work for you, Mr. Hugo Richmond!" he muttered.