And my plan is simply to give Cherry a terrific jar, and then human nature, with such a favorable start, will do the rest.”

“Believe me, it would have to be a terrific jar, all right,” Heftral said with another of his resonant laughs.

“Believe me, it is. And it’s simply this. Be as nice as pie to Cherry. Then at an opportune time just throw her on a horse and pack her off to one of your ruins in the desert. Kidnap her. Keep her out there a little while…scare her half to death…let her know what it is to be uncomfortable, hungry, helpless. Then fetch her back. She’d have to marry you. I would insist upon it. Then we’d all be happy.”

“Mister Winters, the only sane remark you’ve made is that epithet you applied to yourself a few moments ago.”

“It is a most wonderful opportunity. You are ambitious. This would make you.”

“No.”

“I will make you a most substantial settlement. You will be independent for life. You can follow up your archaeological work for the love of it. You…”

“No!”

“Now, Stephen, I can apply that epithet to you. May I ask why you refuse?”

“You…I…Oh, hell! Winters, it’s because I really love Cherry. I couldn’t think of myself in such a case. If I did I’d…I’d be as weak as water. Why, Cherry would hate me.”

“Don’t be so sure of that,” replied Winters sagely. “You can’t ever tell about a woman. It’s a gamble, of course. But you have the odds. Be a good sport, Stephen. Even if you lose you’ll have gained an experience that you’ll remember a lifetime.”

“Mister Winters, you’re taking advantage of human nature,” Heftral replied with agitation.

Cherry could hear him pacing the room, and she felt sorry for him. It pleased her that he had refused. But she knew her father, his relentless ways, and she held her breath.

“Certainly I am,” agreed Winters, growing warmer. “Stephen, look at it this way. Consent for Cherry’s sake.”

“But, man, I can’t believe that wonderful girl is going to hell. I can’t.”

“Naturally. You’re in love with her.