“I’m afraid so; but here comes the boy.”
In effect Nic came now to the door, followed by the two men, both of whom looked uneasy, while Nic’s countenance was disfigured by rather a sullen, ill-used look.
“Come in,” said the doctor sharply. “You too, my men. Nic, stand there.”
Nic took the appointed place, and the men were nearly opposite, both stroking their heads carefully, Brookes his hair, old Sam his skin, for there was no hair on the top to stroke. The governor, who looked pale and weak, sat back in a rough chair.
“Now, Brookes,” said the doctor sternly; “I have been over to Mr Dillon and heard about this trouble, one which ought not to have happened in my absence. I should now like to hear your statement.”
Brookes gave it, and old Sam kept on uttering grunts till the man had done, when he gave his version.
“Now, Dominic,” said the doctor sternly, and the governor sat watching the boy keenly. “You have heard what Brookes says. Speak out, sir, like an English gentleman and my son. Let me tell you, first of all, that I do not believe you would be guilty of such an offence against the law as Brookes suggests; but—”
“Oh, it’s true enough,” grumbled the man.
“Silence, sir!” cried the doctor angrily. “You have spoken; don’t interrupt again.” Then turning to Nic: “I was going to say, my boy, as this charge has been brought against you in the presence of our governor, that you have aided and abetted a violent convict, I call upon you to clear yourself at once. Now, boy, speak.”
“Yes, father, I’ll speak,” said Nic firmly; “but I can’t clear myself.”