"Easy to finish the job," remarked Dr. Peterssen.
But, hardened as he was, Leonard shrank from the ruthless suggestion. Had he been alone he might have nerved himself to the desperate expedient, but in the presence of a witness----
"Are you certain be lives?"
"Quite certain," said Dr. Peterssen. "His head is badly cut, and there is no saying in what condition he will be when he opens his eyes. He has a long illness before him, which may terminate fatally."
"But, before the end he may be able to assure Emilia that they are legally married. Before the end he may make his will!"
"He may. It would be bad for both of us"
"Is there no road but one out of it?"
"I have a strong gift of invention," said Dr. Peterssen. "There is another road, a hazardous one, the risk and trouble of which will be mine; but I don't mind, so long as I am properly paid for it, and you will be rich enough to arrange that to my satisfaction."
"Speak plainly, in the devil's name."
"In the name of that august myth I will endeavor to do so. What hazards and what personal inconvenience will not such a sacred friendship as ours incur for a quid pro quo! The two men lying helpless before us, one dead and one living, are about the same height. Perhaps you have observed that?"