Gretzinger stood, back to the stove, smoking a Turkish cigarette.
"Well, Bryant, I've returned to discuss our little business transaction," he greeted.

"Judged this to be about the right time.
How's the exchequer ?" "Little in it," said Lee, hanging his coat and cap on a hook.

"But I made sure it was locked before leaving here; you might come any moment." "Oh, I don't waste time on an empty box," was the light answer.

"Mind if Carrigan hears what we say?
Don't, eh?
Neither do I.He knows, or ought to know, you're through.

And besides, I'll want to discuss construction matters with him when you and I are done." "Perhaps Bryant can yet secure a loan somewhere," the contractor remarked, mildly.
"From Menocal, possibly," Gretzinger suggested, cocking his eyebrows at Carrigan with mock enthusiasm.