Is that a fair offer ?" "An exceedingly fair one," Kitwater replied, while little Codd nodded his head energetically to show that he appreciated it.

"We had expected that you would charge more.

Of course you understand that it may involve a chase round half the world before you can find him?
He's as slippery as an eel, and, if he once gets to know that we are after him, he'll double and twist like a hare." "He'll not be the first man I have had to deal with who possessed these characteristics," I answered.

"And I have generally succeeded in running them to earth at the end." "Let's hope for all our sakes that you will be as successful in this case," he said.

"And now, if I may ask the question, when will you be ready to begin your search?
We shall both feel happier when we know that you are on his track." "I am ready as soon as you like," I rejoined.