The day passed slowly; but late in the afternoon the suspense became so keen that he found it difficult to keep himself from making inquiries of the proper officials as to whether affidavits had been filed by Harbert or any other person. His hand did not shake now, but there was a steady pain at the back of his head.
"Droom, I think I'll go home. If I don't appear in the morning, you'll know that I'm at some police station. Good-day!"
"Good-bye!" said Elias, with correcting emphasis. Bansemer laughed heartily.
"I believe you'd like to see me jugged."
"Not unless you could be convicted. I'll have to remain in your employ until then, I suppose."
"I've often wondered why you don't quit of your own accord—it seems so distasteful to you."
"I'm working for you from force of habit."
"You'll turn State's evidence if I'm arrested, no doubt, curse you."
"If my word counted for anything," and he raised his hand; "I'd say—'So help me-I shan't."
"I've never been able to understand you."