“Offenders against the law ought to be punished!” he said severely. “I am not the man to compound a felony.”
“Then, your lordship, I am at liberty to make known whatever I have learnt to the police.”
“And give up these people you are so anxious to shield?”
“No; persuade them to turn Queen’s evidence.”
He began to move about impatiently.
“Have it your own way, then, and for goodness sake let me know where the jewels are, and get this business over.”
“You give me your word of honor that you will not only refrain from taking proceedings against any man but the murderer, but you will help to shield the others from the effects of their own folly?”
“And wickedness,” added the earl, severely.
“And wickedness.”
“You are asking a great deal,” said the new Lord St. Austell, with a wry face. “Do you know the reputation I bear?”