“Not a word of truth in it, sir, I assure you. Really I—”
“Stop a moment, man! You were exceedingly jealous of him.”
“Really no, sir. I only did what I thought was right to keep the boy from growing too conceited.”
“Well, of course, pitching him into the river would have that effect; but it strikes me that it will get you into difficulties.”
“Really, sir—I assure you, sir, if it was the last word I had to utter, sir—I didn’t do anything of the kind.”
“Of course not, Wilkins,” said the colonel, quietly; “the doctor is only quizzing you. I cannot believe that you would be guilty of such a dastardly act. But do you think anything of the kind has happened?”
“No, sir; I don’t think such a thing could have taken place.”
“I hope not; but you have heard the rumour?”
“Yes, sir; the men are talking about nothing else.”
“One moment,” cried the colonel; “you have seen a great deal of the young man. Do you think he was likely to get into bad company?”