“To keep him quiet and accept his dismissal, Scott Clemmons had paid him well, and he had all the proofs of what he said, and knew that it was the intention of Scott Clemmons to get you dismissed from the academy by some foul means, notwithstanding that you had saved his life, for he treated you with the bitterest venom.
“Then, Sam says, the visitor, who gave his name as Barney Breslin, boldly demanded two thousand dollars from Merchant Clemmons, or he would go to the commandant and give proof of Scott’s villainy and have him dismissed in disgrace.
“Sam says that Mr. Clemmons was deeply moved, when convinced that the young man told the truth, and told him that he would give him the money, and more, on condition that he should give into his hands all proofs and then leave the country.
“This the young man promised to do, and when Mr. Clemmons sent to the bank for the money, he handed over to him a bundle of papers, letters, which Scott Clemmons had written, and other documents, which the merchant seemed glad to get.
“Such is Sam’s story, and you now know what a foe you have in Scott Clemmons, and can govern yourself accordingly, Mark.”
Such was the letter, and Bemis Perry listened to every word of it with the deepest attention.
“Now, Perry, you have the facts.”
“Yes, and you asked my advice?”
“I did, and I wish it, for, though I do not fear Clemmons’ open hostility, I do not care to be on guard constantly against his blow in the dark, nor do I wish a scandal, for of that there has been enough with Breslin.”
“So I think; but my idea is to save a scandal, and to keep the secret between ourselves, while I force Clemmons to resign, for it will come better from me than from you. If you will trust me with that letter I will act.”