“Of course, sir.”
Nic felt the magistrate’s eyes piercing almost into his very thoughts; but, at the same time, he saw those armed men and that pack of dogs ready to hunt down the convict, and if he could avoid it he was determined not to say all he knew.
“You came over to my place last night and broke a way out for that fellow to escape.”
“I did not,” said Nic firmly.
“Do you mean to tell me that you did not bring over a handcuff key which your father has, and climb in at the roof and unlock the bracelets?”
“I do tell you so!” said Nic. “I did not know we had such a thing.”
“On your word as a gentleman?”
“On my word as a gentleman,” said Nic. Then to himself: “If he asks me if I came over, I must say Yes.”
“Then I beg your pardon,” said Mr Dillon. “But you have him here?”
“No,” said Nic, “he is not here.”