This slow torture was too much for the attorney's fortitude; and, as his
respiration grew painful, he called to his executioner to stop. Hatchie
promptly loosened the rope.
After giving the victim time to recover from the choking sensation, the
mulatto repeated his question.
The fear of an ignominious death, of dying under such revolting
circumstances, had a cooling effect upon the bravado spirit of the
lawyer. His pride had received a most salutary shock, and he felt
disposed to treat for his life, even with the despised slave of Miss
Dumont. Had his tormentor been any other than one of that detested race,
he could easily have regarded him as a man and conceded something for
the boon of life. Reduced to the last extremity by the relentless energy
of his victor, he had no choice but to yield the point or die.
"Will you answer my questions?" repeated Hatchie, sternly.
"What would you have me answer?" replied Maxwell, doggedly.
"Did you forge the will by which my mistress is deprived of her rights?"
"No."
"Do you know who did?"
Maxwell hesitated, and Hatchie again pulled the rope till his face was
crimson.
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