"But consider the peculiar circumstances," said James Cromwell, significantly.
"What peculiar circumstances?" demanded the merchant, desperately.
"Shall I mention them?" asked Cromwell, pointedly.
"If you want me to understand, yes. You are talking in enigmas, and I never was good at understanding enigmas."
"Then," said James Cromwell, leaning slightly forward, and looking intently at Mr. Morton, "may I ask to what use you have put the subtle poison which you purchased of me ten days since?"
The color rushed to Paul Morton's face at this direct interrogation.
"The poison?" he repeated.
"Yes, you certainly have not forgotten the purchase."
"I think you must be mistaken in the person."
"Pardon me, I am not."