I have been as near
the mine as I thought safe. They seem to be very busy clearing out both
shafts--two steam-engines, constant relays of workmen. Who has got the
job in hand?"
"I have," said Bartley.
"Well, that's clever of you to throw dust in their eyes, and put our
little game off your own shoulders. You want to save appearances? You
know you can not save William Hope."
"I can save him, and I will save him. God will have mercy on a penitent
assassin, as he once had upon a penitent thief."
Monckton stared at him and smiled.
"Who has been talking to you--the parson?"
"My own conscience. I abhor myself as much as I do you, you black
villain."
"Ah!" said Monckton, with a wicked glance, "that's how a man patters
before he splits upon his pals, to save his own skin. Now, look here, old
man, before you split on me ask yourself who had the greatest interest in
this job. You silenced a dangerous enemy, but what have I gained? you
ought to square with me first, as you promised. If you split upon me
before that, you will put yourself in the hole and leave me out of it.
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