"That will do no good.

I have not come to rob you.

I don't ask you to give me ten thousand dollars.

All I want is a loan, for which I will pledge good security." "What kind of security ?" asked Jasper quickly.
"Security on my lead-mine." "Pooh! I wouldn't give the snap of a finger for such security!" Jasper, thrown off his guard, spoke more contemptuously than was prudent.
An instant change was visible in Martin, who, rising, commenced buttoning up his coat.

There was about him every mark of a man deeply offended.
"Good evening, sir!" said he, with a low, formal bow, yet with his eyes fixed searchingly in those of the merchant.
"Martin,"-- Jasper did not smile, nor was there in his voice the slightest affectation of good feeling--yet his manner and tone were both decisive,--"Martin, sit down again.