He would frighten her a bit, and get the money after all.
"We'll see about that!" he said, taking a step towards Hilda, with an evil look in his red eyes.

"I'll settle a little account with you fust, my fine lady.

I'll teach you to come spyin' round on me this way.

Ye ain't give me a civil word sence ye come here, an' I'll pay ye--" Here Simon stopped suddenly; for without a word Hildegarde had raised the pistol (which he had not seen before, as her hand was behind her), and levelled it full at his head, keeping her eyes steadily fixed on him.

With a howl of terror the wretch staggered back, putting up his hands to ward off the expected shot.
"Don't shoot!" he gasped, while his color changed to a livid green.
"I--I didn't mean nothin', I swar I didn't, Miss Graham.