There was much evidence for and much
against him.
Maxwell, unwilling to criminate himself, was in a sad dilemma; his ready
wits alone could save him. But his hesitation procured him another
instant of suffocation.
"I obtained the knowledge from De Guy," said he, at last.
"How! did he voluntarily betray the confidence of his employer?"
"No, from his inquiries concerning the affairs of the family, I
suspected something; when the will was read my impressions were
confirmed. I charged him with the crime."
"Did he acknowledge it?"
"He did."
"Then why did you not expose the plot?"
"It did not suit my purpose."
"What was your purpose?"
"To marry Miss Dumont."
The attorney's answers seemed plausible. His actions were in conformity
with his avowed purpose. If he wished to marry his mistress, he would
not have joined in the plot. But the bill of sale, which Emily had
mentioned to him, was against him. Poor Hatchie was no lawyer, and was
sadly perplexed by the conflicting testimony.
"Where did you get that bill of sale?" said he.
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