"He says that you ought to have had this man Jarvis electrocuted by this time."
"I have proceeded with great caution," said Nick.
"Yes, you have," said Deever. "You have been very careful to shield Jarvis at every step. He's a rich man, Jarvis is!"
"Deever," said the superintendent, sternly, "I have delayed answering your complaint until this time because I wished to have Mr. Colton present to hear what I said.
"And, now, what I have to say is this—don't you venture to hint at the shadow of a suspicion of his integrity. I am entirely satisfied with Mr. Colton's conduct. I sustain him absolutely. I have put this case in his hands, and there it stays."
Deever quailed at these words, but his natural obstinacy came to his aid.
"I can get a warrant for Jarvis' arrest," he said.
"Go ahead and do it, and make a fool of yourself," replied the superintendent.
"With your permission," said Nick, "I advise Mr. Deever to remain here. Meanwhile we will send a messenger for the witness, John Flint, whose testimony seems to me to be of the greatest importance."
"Proceed just as you wish," said Byrnes.