"Just in time to save himself from being betrayed," said Torry. "And now, Mr. Vass, why did you not tell us this before?"
"I was afraid of being accused of the murder, so I held my tongue."
"More fool you. You might have saved us a deal of trouble had you been more open. As it is, I believe your story. You stole the notes, but you restored them; and I know you are innocent of the other crime. Well, sir, I won't execute this warrant so you can go back to your work on one condition."
"What is it?" said Vass, anxiously.
"That you hold your tongue."
"Oh, I'll do that," said the secretary joyfully, and departed in all haste, glad to have got off so easily in that terrible interview.
"Do you believe his story?" asked Darrel, when the door closed.
"Every word of it," was Torry's prompt reply. "That creature hasn't the spirit of a rabbit. Catch him committing one murder, let alone two. Not he; I expect the poor devil has been in torture with this on his mind. No doubt he is glad I made him confess."
"I don't like him; he's a sneak."
"So he is, and a coward, sir; but," added Torry with emphasis, "he is not a murderer."