"What could have been his object in establishing himself here? If he is a rogue, I don't see what opportunities he has of practicing dishonesty."
"Bear in mind that this house is not many miles from the border. If he committed a robbery in the States, he could easily take refuge in his Canadian home, where he would be safe from arrest."
"There is something in that."
"If you don't care to remain in his house overnight, I think I could insure you a welcome from my uncle, who lives not far away."
"Thank you, but it would be awkward to make a change at this late hour. Besides, what explanation could we give?"
"Still, if you distrust him——"
"There is another consideration. We have paid in advance," suggested Scott.
"I should not mind forfeiting five dollars," said the earl. "There is one thing I should mind more."
"What is that?"
"To leave now would be a confession of cowardice. We ought—the two of us—to be a match for Red Ralph."