Gabriel nearly stopped breathing when the man stepped closer and he knew his chance of running was gone. He trembled and could feel sweat break out, and still he did not let go of the tin. Courage, he told himself, like the martyrs. But he found himself wanting to toss the money at the man and run. He looked the man in the eye, swallowed, and then managed to bring out quietly: "Yes, sir. That is what we want. But the children and weakest of your brothers and sisters come first..." Had he ever been brave in his life? He was surprised at himself. But at the same time he was about to piss himself.