"To my remark that I was to quit upon their advice, and had done so, Pierre replied:
"'Yes, but who imagined Alice would be drowned?'
"'You are suspected of putting her out of the way!'
"I was so angry that I looked straight at him, and said:
"'You know more about that than I do!'
"I have often been sorry for this thrust, but it went home. Paul grew pale, and stared at me frightfully.
"'Here, boys, none of your foolish quarreling!' said Pierre. 'Mr. Dodge is entitled under the contract to the money. It shall never be said that Pierre Lanier failed to keep his word. We must stand by each other whatever happens. Mr. Dodge has a family, and long as I live they shall be provided for. I could beat him out of the money, as the contract was illegal and void. He could be prosecuted for conspiracy and fraud. Mr. Dodge will be suspected of murdering that man and girl. I have already heard rumors to that effect. But we must stand together. It would never do for Mr. Dodge to return home now. He must stay away from Calcutta a year, at least. Paul and I will go to Calcutta. We will let you know all that happens. You must not write to London, or to any one but me. I will deliver your letters to Mary, and mail hers to you. Your name must be James Wilton. When it is safe, I will write you to come home.'
"I saw the force of these directions, but asked how I was to live during my stay from home, and what provisions would be made for my family.
"Pierre replied: 'To-morrow you shall have one hundred pounds. I will give Mary one hundred pounds on my arrival in Calcutta. In one year I will pay each of you an additional hundred pounds. By that time, in all probability, you can return, and I will pay the balance in five equal annual installments.'