What ought he to do under the circumstances?
If he snatched the pistol from his hand, he would run the risk of being shot, and it would be no charity to the poor wretch to save his life in order that, after cruelly torturing him, the authorities at the mines might take it in a few hours.
Holding out his hand, he said:
"Good-by."
The murderer grasped it warmly.
"You say good-by! Have you anything to add?" he asked.
"Yes. God bless you and——"
Jack hesitated.
"What?"
"Forgive you, for His Son's sake."