Bragg's countenance was instantly beclouded.
"Good-morning, Mr. Wiggins," said Belton. "I do not see your principal. Where is Mr. Botts?"
"He has fled," said Wiggins.
"Fled?" said Belton.
"Fled!" exclaimed Bragg; and his face became as radiant as the morning just then illuminated by the sun which had appeared above the eastern horizon.
"Yes," said Wiggins, "Botts has run off like an arrant poltroon."
"I will post him for cowardice!" exclaimed Bragg.
"As you please," said Wiggins. "I want nothing more to do with Mr. Botts. He attempted to assassinate me."
"Assassinate you!" exclaimed Toney.
"Yes, sir; when I informed him of the terms proposed by you, he attempted to take my life."