"Hear what Colonel Harrington has to say. If it suits you, settle up this matter as you think right. I am here to see that he does as he promises."
Bart stepped out of the room. There was a continuous hum of conversation for nearly half an hour. Then the colonel opened the door.
"I'm to go into the house to write out something Baker wants," he explained. "Then I'll come back."
"Very well," nodded Bart.
He tried to engage Baker in conversation, but the latter, his hands free now, paced the room nervously, acting like some caged animal.
"I'm afraid of him!" he declared. "I don't know that I am doing what is best. He's a bad man. He begs me to spare him for the sake of his family."
"Is this a matter where settlement will do any injustice to others?" asked Bart.
"None, now—it is past that."
"Then follow the dictates of your own judgment, Mr. Baker," directed Bart, "being sure that you are acting with a clear conscience."
Colonel Harrington, when he returned, brought two documents. Baker looked them over.