Mr. Willing was silent for a long time.
“It is hard to believe,” he said at last, “but you must be right.”
He approached the bed.
“Frank,” he said quietly, “why did you sell me out?”
The old negro rolled his eyes but did not reply.
“Frank,” said Mr. Willing again, “you are going to die.”
“No! No!” cried the old negro.
“It is true,” continued Mr. Willing. “Now, Frank, haven’t I always treated you all right?”
“Yessah!”
“Then tell me why you sold me out.”