“Yes, the proof is convincing,” said Long John.
A growl came from one or two throats near. Long John took up the diamond, looked at it again, and then replaced it on the table.
At that moment there came a knock at the door.
“Silver’s knock,” said Scrivener; “you won’t betray me, Piper?”
“You dog! Get along and let me alone,” said Piper. “Open the door, someone.”
Simpkins went down the room and threw the door open.
“Welcome, Silver,” he said in a voice which slightly shook.
Rowton nodded to him and entered. Without looking to right or left he came straight up the room. It was not his way to be ungracious, and the men resented what they termed his haughty bearing.
“You received my letter?” he said in a curt voice, looking full at Long John.