"It is a long time since you have been so called," I answered, "but your victims in Brazil and Peru still retain the names in their memories without difficulty. I will now present to you the Minister of Peru and the Peruvian Consul at New York, both of whom have taken a lively interest in your past life and actions."
Just as I spoke, the Donna and Madame Sevier entered, and the former, seeing the abject appearance of her husband, asked what was the matter.
"Your husband is a prisoner, madam," I replied; "and as our interview would be painful to you, I must ask you to withdraw for the present at least."
She immediately gave an hysterical scream, and sank upon a divan sobbing frantically. Madame Sevier succeeded in quieting her somewhat, and she remained on the scene with her face buried in the Madame's lap. I felt confident that much of her emotion was feigned, and that she was an attentive listener to all that took place about her; however, I made no objection, but requested Mr. Bangs, who was watching in the hall, to admit the Minister and the rest of the party. As Mr. Bangs withdrew, the Don stepped up to me and said:
"Mr. Pinkerton, I will give you five thousand dollars if you will leave me alone for half an hour."
I smiled, and looking at my watch, said:
"It is now seven o'clock; at ten o'clock you will be on your way to New York."
"You can have ten thousand, if you will let me go; I will pay you the cash in coin immediately."
"Your offers are useless," I replied; "I will let no guilty man escape if it can be avoided."
As I spoke, the Peruvian Minister, the Consul, and Judge Key entered, and we proceeded in a body to the library, leaving the Donna in the care of Madame Sevier. On the way thither, the Don made one more effort to appear in the rôle of an injured innocent.