"Now, if you'll permit me to speak,
we'll take up this man's evidence. There are gaps in it that rather badly
want filling up, and there are thin places which I hardly think would
hold water before a judge and jury. But he swears himself a witness, and
there you are. And as for believing his word before yours--who fired the
shot, Sir Nigel? Did he, or did you? I am a representative of the Law and
as such I entered your house."
Merriton made no reply, simply held his head a little higher and clasped
the edge of the table more firmly.
"Now," said Cleek, turning to the butler and fixing him with his keen
eyes. "You are ready to swear that this is true, upon your oath, and
knowing that perjury is punishable by law?"
"Yes, sir." Borkins's voice was very low and rather indistinct.
"Very well. Then may I ask why you did not immediately report this matter
to the rest of the party, or to the police?"
Something flashed across Borkins's face, and was gone again. He cleared
his throat nervously before replying:
"I felt on me honour to--Sir Nigel, sir," he returned at length.
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