"I intend to, but as yet I have not had the time. After the funeral of Tera I am going to London to see my creditors and learn the truth."

Brand smiled. "You are going to London," he repeated; "that is, you intend to seek safety in flight. Well, it is the best thing you can do. I shall not betray your secret."

"I do not intend to fly. I have done nothing wrong."

"Man! man! why will you try to deceive me? I am your friend, and for your sake, for the sake of our Bethesda, I implore you to fly. What will your congregation say if their pastor is hanged for murder?"

Johnson drew back with a shudder. "Hanged! No, they dare not. I am innocent."

"You have yet to prove that."

"Brand," cried the wretched man, imploringly, "you do not believe that I killed Tera?"

"From my soul I believe you did," replied Korah, sternly, "and if I did my duty I should deliver you to justice. But for the sake of Bethgamul I refrain. My man, fly, and repent of your terrible sin! God help you, for I cannot!" and with a gesture of casting off a sinner. Brand walked out of the room.

[CHAPTER VIII]

CAPTAIN JACOB