His tones were quiet, but there was no doubt as to his meaning and she started back from him in dismay.
"You mean that you would——"
She halted again, wordless.
"Political secrets are dangerous—their possessors a menace."
"You—you would destroy——?" she gasped.
"The evidence!" he finished.
His voice was firm, his lips compressed, and he would not look at her. But she was still incredulous. Civility such as his and violence such as he suggested were incongruous. She took refuge from her terror in a laugh.
"You are trying to—to frighten me," she stammered.
"If you are frightened, I am sorry. You are in no danger, if you will do what I ask. I shall spare no courtesy, neglect no pains for your comfort."
"Thanks. That is kind of you. You will gorge the goose that it may be the more palatable."