I came here because I felt that I had some claim on you." "You were mistaken," said Challoner curtly.
"Hear me out; try to consider my proposition on its merits.

For a number of years, I've known the existence of the oil and have tried to prospect the country.

It was difficult; to transport enough food and tools meant a costly expedition and the attracting of undesirable attention.

I went alone, living with primitive Russian settlers and afterward with the Indians.

To gain a hold on them, I studied the occult sciences, and learned tricks that impose upon the credulous.