"I can't understand it," she panted; "somebody has played me false."
"As the Rev. J.T. Calthorpe is on his way to Sacramento, where he has
to remain till to-morrow," Kelson went on pitilessly, "it will be the
easiest thing in the world to get those letters. I have merely to call
at the house and tell his wife."
"And what good will that do you?" the lady asked.
"Revenge! I hate the rich," Kelson said. "I would do anything to
injure them."
"You are a Socialist?"
"An Anarchist! But come, you see I know all about you and that I have
you completely in my power. If once either your husband or Mrs.
Calthorpe gets hold of those letters--you and your lover would have a
very unpleasant time of it."
"You're a devil!"
"Maybe I am--at all events I'm talking to one. But that's neither here
nor there. I want money. Give me a thousand dollars and you'll never
hear from me again."
"Blackmail! I could have you arrested!"
"Yes, and I would tell the court the whole history of your intrigues!
That wouldn't help you,"--and Kelson laughed.
"Could I count on you not molesting me again if I were to pay you?"
the lady said mockingly.
"You could."
"Do you ever speak the truth?"
"You needn't judge every one by your own standard of morality--the
standard set up by the millionaire's wife," Kelson said. "I swear that
if you pay me a thousand dollars I will never trouble you again."
The lady grew thoughtful, and for some minutes neither of them spoke.
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