"
He leaned forward, both arms on the desk, his black eyes narrowed into
mere slits.
"Oh, I see," finally. "Driven out of one position, like a good
general, you have another in reserve. You are more of an antagonist
than I had supposed, Craig. So now it is the widow who claims the
ducats. Am I also to understand that you are prepared to submit proof
of the death of Philip Henley? By the saints; I am becoming
interested."
"Naturally, if you claim to be the man. I have not said he was dead,
for I do not know. I came down here believing him alive. His wife is
almost convinced otherwise. All I am actually certain about now is
that you are not the man."
"You are extremely free-spoken for a fellow in your condition. You
will at least confess that I am master on board this ship; that my word
here is law, and you are in my power."
"Yes."
"Then why expose yourself, and that young woman, to unnecessary danger?
To be frank, Craig, I sent for you just now in a friendly spirit. You
can be decidedly useful to me, and I can afford to pay well for
services rendered. Now wait! don't break in until I am through. I
know who you are, and how you originally became involved in this
affair. You have no personal interest in the final outcome, so you
receive the amount promised.
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