"To me, I presume you mean;" then when he bowed, she continued her examination. "The five thousand pounds you intimate is on account, yet you say that Chaldea will deliver the letter for that sum."
"To me," rejoined the ex-secretary impudently. "And when it is in my possession, I can give it to you for twenty thousand pounds."
Lady Agnes laughed in his face. "I am too good a business woman to make such a bargain," she said with a shrug.
"Well, you know best," replied Silver, imitating her shrug.
"I know nothing; I am quite in the dark as to the reason for your blackmailing, Mr. Silver."
"That is a nasty word, Lady Agnes."
"It is the only word which seems to suit the situation. Why should I give twenty-five thousand pounds for this letter?"
"Its production will place the police on the track of the assassin."
"And is not that what I desire? Why did I offer a reward of one thousand pounds if I did not hope that the wretch who murdered my husband should be brought to justice?"
Silver exhibited unfeigned surprise. "You wish that?"