“Mr. Waddell,” said Noyes, “is anxious that his daughter should marry a man of considerable wealth. My opinions are different” — Noyes smiled before he dropped his bombshell — “because I am more interested in whom she should not marry.
“I, for instance, doubt the advisability of Tobias Waddell having a son-in-law who has been detected in such irregularities as crooked gambling, intended blackmail, and fraudulent stock transactions.”
“To whom are you referring?” Tholbin’s question was harsh and sullen.
“To you,” declared Noyes.
Tholbin was on his feet, his fists clenched. His attitude was threatening.
“You can’t prove it!” he cried. “There have been lies told about me, but I spiked them! There is not a man in New York who can give evidence against me!”
“None in New York City,” replied Noyes quietly, “but there are three in New York State.”
“Where are they?” demanded Tholbin.
“In Sing Sing Prison,” replied Noyes.
Tholbin sat down suddenly. His clenched fists opened. He found himself staring hopelessly at the old lawyer. Parker Noyes was as benign as ever, but to Tholbin the kindliness in the attorney’s face had turned to malice.