"Are you, as this man alleges, a prisoner who some months ago broke jail in the adjoining state?"
"I am." The voice, muffled by the mask, was low but distinct.
"The man who shot him in his library?"
"No."
The questioning, deep grey eyes looked steadily at the mask—it seemed as if the gaze would bore through the cloth. "But you were found guilty of that offence!"
"I was convicted, yes."
The Governor was silent a moment; then his hand reached for the pen on the table. "On the admission, then," he said slowly, "it is my duty to request the authorities to take you into custody. You are aware of your rights under the law?"
The striped figure bowed. "I am. I shall waive extradition. With your permission, however, I should like to make a statement."
"He can make that in the jail," interposed Craig contemptuously. "Take off his mask and send for the police."
The Governor frowned. "He can make it here and now, if he so chooses. This is not your house, Mr. Craig. If you do not care to listen, there will be no objection to your withdrawal—with your witness."