His plans were arranged, and he determined to encourage
his companion to proceed, though, at the same time, to seem unwilling,
and to keep his own hands clean from all participation in it.
After this long interval of silence, which Jaspar had endured with
patience, for he recognized the truth of the saying, that "He who
deliberates is damned," Maxwell said,
"I cannot consent to stain my hands with such gross injustice."
"You cannot!" sneered Jaspar.
"It would ruin me."
"It was part of my intention to keep the transaction a secret," said
Jaspar, sarcastically.
"Of course, and your confidence in me shall not be misplaced."
Jaspar's fists were clenched, and a demoniacal expression rested on his
countenance, as he said, savagely,
"You know your own interest too well to do otherwise."
"I am not to be intimidated," replied Maxwell, who despised his
companion most heartily, and did not relish his tyrannical manner. "Your
confidence, I repeat, is safe. _Honor_ will keep your secret,--threats
will not compel me to do so.
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