Paragraphs 37-41 (Page 4) Summary

Jonathan now appeals to God as his witness. He bluntly states that he does not have one hundred pounds; he only possesses twenty Nigerian pounds. He swears this is so by God and challenges the thieves to prove him wrong, telling them that if they find one hundred pounds within they have his unneeded permission to execute the entire family. His bold statement convinces the thief that he is telling the truth and the thief states that if Jonathan will surrender his twenty Nigerian pounds the thieves will leave.

The thief's partners balk at this agreement, and suggest they should simply execute the entire family and perform a thorough search of the house. The thief, in obvious command, tells them bluntly to shut-up and commands Jonathan to quickly surrender the money. Jonathan realizes the best bargain he is likely...