"Is that true?" repeated the judge.
"Why—er—yes."
"You never threatened Martinez with violence? Careful!"
"No, sir," declared Kittredge stubbornly.
Hauteville turned to his desk, and opening a leather portfolio, drew forth a paper and held it before Kittredge's eyes.
"Do you recognize this writing?"
"It's—it's my writing," murmured Lloyd, and his heart sank. How had the judge got this letter? And had he the others?
"You remember this letter? You remember what you wrote about Martinez?"
"Yes."
"Then there was a quarrel and you did threaten him?"