"I only said that to help him to get a small official post. I am responsible for nobody. What have I to do with the characters of my servants, my lacqueys."
"But you assured me that your bills often passed through his hands."
Mr. John fancied that the best way out of this unpleasant cul-de-sac was by adopting a little energetic bluffing.
"What do you mean by cross-examining me in my own house?" he cried, with affected hauteur, springing from the sofa.
The magistrate rose at the same time.
"Pardon me, but I am here not as a visitor, but in my official capacity—as your judge."
And with that he coolly unbuttoned his attila[40] and drew forth from the inside pocket a large sealed letter.
[40] A fur pelisse, worn on state occasions.
"You must swear to every one of the interrogatories administered to you by me."
"I? I'll swear to nothing," cried Mr. John. "I am a Quaker and therefore cannot take an oath."