I don't believe
you ever served in the British Army. I have every reason to believe
that you poisoned my dog, and that you,--were the man who came to
my window the other night. And I suspect that you are the cause of
poor Rosabel Vick's suicide. Now you know what I think of you. My
God, how could you have come here tonight? These people trusted
you,--they still trust you. Until now I did not believe such men
as you existed. You--"
"I had nothing, absolutely nothing to do with Rosabel," he cried
hoarsely. He was trembling like a leaf. "Don't you go putting such
ideas into their heads. Don't you--"
"Oh, I am not likely to do that," she interrupted scornfully. "I
shall not add to their misery. If I could prove that you betrayed
that poor, foolish child,--then I would see to it that you paid
the price. But I cannot prove it. I only know that she would have
been helpless in your hands. Oh, I know your power! I have felt it.
And I did not even pretend to myself that I loved you. What chance
would she have had if she loved and trusted you? I shudder at the
thought of--If Amos Vick should even suspect you of wronging his
child, he would not wait for proof. He would tear you to pieces.
You may be innocent. That is why I am giving you your chance. Now,
go!"
"You certainly will give me the opportunity to defend myself, Alix.
Am I to be condemned unheard? If you will allow me to walk to the
ferry with you--"
"And who is to act as my bodyguard?" she inquired with a significant
sneer.
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