"Was Dr. Lord at Tampa with you last winter?"
"Yes."
"Did he also meet this fellow Alvarez?"
"I am not certain; but I think he must have seen him, as he and I frequently went to the gambling rooms where Alvarez did business."
"Tell me," said Nick. "Would it not be to your interest if your sister did not marry Dr. Lord?"
This sudden question confused young Rogers.
"I do not know what you mean, Mr. Carter," he faltered.
"I will put it plainer. Do you wish your sister to marry Dr. Lord?"
"I do."
"Now, Mr. Rogers, I want you to answer me truthfully: Are you afraid of your wife?"