“Ah, at last we are coming to the crux of the matter. Since you have proofs for your statements, you think there is no libel?”
“I believe that is sound law,” said Katherine.
“It is sound enough law,” he said. He leaned toward her, and there was now the glint of triumph in his eyes. “But suppose the proofs were not sound?”
Katherine started.
“The proofs not sound?”
“Yes. I suppose your article is based upon testimony?”
“Of course.”
His next words were spoken slowly, that each might sink deeply in.
“Well, suppose your witnesses had found they were mistaken and had repudiated their testimony? What then?”
She sank back in her chair. At last the expected blow had fallen. She sat dazed, thinking wildly. Had they got to Doctor Sherman since she had seen him, and forced him to recant? Had Manning, offered the world by them in this crisis, somehow sold her out? She searched the latter’s face with consternation. But he wore a rather stolid look that told her nothing.