"You missed a dramatic scene at the store. I'm told Carnally threw Mappin downstairs and out into the snow."
Andrew shook his head dubiously.
"It's a pity, but I might have been prepared for something of the kind. I can hardly grudge him any satisfaction he derived from it."
"It was a good stroke; Mappin will find it damaging."
"But I understood he was a friend of yours," Andrew said with some awkwardness.
"He came to my house. I put up with him, which I think describes it best, though I fail to see much reason for doing so any longer. But what are you going to do about the lode?"
"Go back and investigate it thoroughly. We'll wait until the spring."
"Then you mean to proceed with your scheme? I see trouble, but I mustn't discourage you. Now I guess the situation warrants some candor. Has it struck you that Mappin is working hand in hand with your brother-in-law?"
"I'm afraid it's true." Andrew's face was grave. "You can see how it complicates things."
"But you mean to go on?"