"
"Does that mean we shall die the moment we fail?" Kelson inquired
timidly.
"Die!" the voice lisped. "Again you speak in terms you do not
understand. You may be sent for."
"You say--in perfect harmony." Hamar put in. "Does that mean without a
quarrel, however slight?"
"It means without a quarrel that would lead to separation. The moment
you disunite the compact is broken."
"What advantages will the secrets bring us?" Hamar inquired. "Can we
gain unlimited wealth?"
"Yes!" the voice replied. "Unlimited wealth and influence."
"And health?"
"So long as you fulfil the conditions of the compact you will enjoy
perfect health. Will you, or will you not, pledge yourselves?"
"I am ready if you fellows are," Hamar whispered.
"I am!" Curtis cried. "Anything is better than the life we are living
at present."
"And I, too," Kelson said. "I agree with Ed."
"Very well then," the voice once more lisped. "Each of you take a
fruit and eat it, and the compact is irrevocably struck. You cannot
back out of it without incurring the consequences already named. Don't
be afraid, step up here and help yourselves--one apiece--mind, no
more." And again it seemed to Hamar, Curtis and Kelson as if the tree
and everything around it was convulsed with silent laughter.
"Come on!" Hamar cried, somewhat imperatively. "Don't waste time.
You've decided, and besides, remember this affair may turn out trumps.
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