I have paid pretty dear for her, but what of it?
A gentleman of our profession should always be ready to back his fancy, for if his is apt to be a short life he may as well make it a merry one." "She will think the better of you, and you of her for it," cried a voice.

"Here is to Captain Pierre and the girl." And they drank, shouting aloud in their half-drunken merriment.
Meanwhile Otter, advancing with obsequious steps, was pouring handful after handful of gold coin and ingots into the large scales which Pereira caused to be held before him.

At length all the gold was in, a shining heap.
"The balance does not turn," said Xavier; "I claim the girl." "Baas," said Otter in a low voice, and speaking in Dutch, "have you more gold?
The weight is short." Leonard glanced carelessly at the scales: they were trembling on the turn.
"As much as you like," he said, "but here is what will do it." And drawing off his signet ring he threw it on the pile.

The ruby excepted, it was the last thing of value that he had about him.

Then the scale vibrated and sank down.
"Good," said Pereira, rubbing his hands at the sight of so much treasure.