The Mexican drew himself up and his eyes glittered. "Señor, you shall answer me for those words. I am a gentleman, and I challenge you to a duel. You dare not refuse."
"We'll see about that, when this matter of Carr's death is settled, Don Manuel. Meantime, remember that every move you make, I shall know of and baffle."
Santiago shrugged his shoulders. "The fine scheme is ended," he said, "this little fool has spoilt all. I will do what you wish Señor, since you are too strong for me."
"Very good. And Joyce, you must get your father to see me."
"If I can," muttered Robin with a glance of hatred.
"You must," answered Herrick going to the door. "Good-bye gentlemen, I shall leave you to settle your own affairs now." And he went out laughing.
[CHAPTER XX]
THE REVD. PENTLAND CORN
Herrick did not take all that Santiago had said for gospel truth. The Mexican was too clever and too bold a man to give in so tamely, seeing what was at stake. For the moment he had recognised that he was powerless, and had surrendered until such time as he could recover his position. Dr. Jim could have stopped all his machinations, by having him arrested for the assault on Stephen. But he did not wish to bring the police into the matter at present. In the first place so many lies had been told about the Case, there were so many things to be explained, that he was not sure of his ground. And for the sake of Stephen he did not wish to create a scandal. Colonel Carr's reputation was quite bad enough without making it worse.
Therefore the only thing that Jim could do was to have the two scamps watched. Certainly they might warn Frisco to clear out; but whatever Santiago did, Herrick felt sure that Joyce would not counsel such a course. The little man knew well enough that his safety depended upon Herrick, and would do nothing which might jeopardise his safety. The Mexican might plot and plan; but Joyce would certainly obey orders. Also, they could do little if closely watched. Herrick then gave his orders to Kidd and Belcher, and returned the next day to Saxham.