"Bolling was wanted for an attempt upon Master Ormerod's life in New York town," interjected Colden.
"I am not responsible for that," observed Murray. "It shows at best that there was enmity betwixt the two. But surely, my masters, enmity does not call for cold-blooded murder."
There was no misinterpreting the unanimity of the endorsement which his words received. Governor Burnet held up his hand for silence.
"I shall look into Master Murray's charges," he said. "So much, at least, he is entitled to. But first I wish to acquaint him with what I have laid before this gathering, all the more so because he is more vitally interested perhaps than any other.
"Master Murray, I am concerned over the extent to which the fur-trade is passing into French hands, and I am bound to say my information indicates that the French have your assistance in the matter. The quantities of trade-goods going up-river have enormously increased this Summer. They are hundreds of tons in excess of what formerly passed through Albany."
"Doubtless our trading-posts have profited thereby," suggested Murray blandly.
"On the contrary," returned Master Burnet with decision. "Our trading-posts have fared worse, if anything. Aside from the Iroquois, the savages are patronizing more and more the French traders. And as I have told these gentlemen here, the French have increased their trading-stocks already to such an extent that they have been able to establish parity with our prices."
"Yet the volume of furs coming through Albany has increased and not diminished," said Murray.
"What has that to do with the situation I have outlined?" demanded the governor with his first show of impatience.
"Everything, sir."