“Listen,” Macheson said, “the dogs will not be allowed to hurt you, but if you are loose I promise that I will protect you from them. You had better wait here with me.”
The man fell upon his knees.
“Sir,” he begged, “I am innocent of everything except a blow struck in anger. Help me to escape, I implore you. There are others who will suffer—if anything happens to me.”
“The law is just,” Macheson answered. “You will suffer nothing except justice.”
“I want mercy, not justice,” the man sobbed. “For the love of God, help me!”
Macheson hesitated. Again the early morning stillness was broken by that hoarse, terrifying sound. His sporting instincts were aroused. He had small sympathy with the use of such means against human beings.
“I will give you a chance,” he said. “Remember it is nothing more. Follow me!”
He led the way to the slate pit.
“Can you swim?” he asked.