He struck the metal a hard blow.
Instantly the case parted. To the delight of all, a crisp, folded paper rolled out.
It was covered with writing, and was as intact as the day it was placed there.
At the bottom of the confession was the name of Duncan Crane, and also that of the witnesses. The evidence was complete.
Stanhope was the most delighted man in the world.
He carefully gathered up the remains of the metal case and the papers and placed them securely away. Then he declared unctuously:
“I am ready for anything. What joy I shall bring to the sorrowing wife and stricken husband!”
“I hardly think their pleasure will be greater than yours,” said Frank, with a laugh.
“Very true,” agreed Stanhope; “this is the happiest achievement of my life, I can tell you.”
The remains of the silver whale were left in the cavern. The Dolphin backed out and into the open sea.