“What I said to you before, I repeat now—those papers must be returned to my hands, at any cost.”
“There are two sets of papers,” I reminded him.
“Those affecting me you can retain. I can protect myself from any charges and slanders founded upon mistake.”
“Mistake!” exclaimed Helga bitterly.
“I said mistake, mademoiselle; and I am going to prove to you before I leave that what I say is true. But first, you are here together, and I invite you to say on what terms the other papers shall be placed in my hands.”
“You had my answer to-day,” said Helga.
“I do not accept that answer, mademoiselle.”
“I have no other.”
“I am here in no spirit of hostility, neither to make or to hear recriminations. I wish the important papers to be recovered with the least disturbance and trouble to all concerned.”
“That is a threat,” I put in.