A man can't make a living on the place, and the mortgage is due next week." "I'll pay off the mortgage; I've enough money saved up to do that." "But, man, without water----" "Listen, Stevenson, I know exactly what I'm about," the engineer interrupted.

"This thing's a gamble with me, I admit, but you needn't do any worrying on that score.

I'm going in with my eyes open; I know the risks and am willing to take them.

What about my offer ?" Stevenson, still gazing at his visitor in wonderment, was at a loss; he rubbed his knuckles doubtfully, hitched about on his chair and knit his brows, perplexed, hesitating, as was his manner when presented with any new affair, even with one palpably to his advantage.

It was clear that in this lack of quick decision lay much of the reason for his failure.
His wife exclaimed in appeal, "Oh, John, if Mr.Bryant really means it, why don't you say yes?
I can't understand why he makes us such a fine offer, but he is making it.