CHAPTER VIII.
CIRCUMSTANTIAL EVIDENCE WHICH MIGHT HAVE HANGED DANTON.
It was at this juncture that Nick called Doctor Pollock aside for a moment.
“Doctor,” he said, “I would appreciate it if you would consent to do me a small favor in this matter.”
“Very well, sir, what can I do?” replied the doctor.
“I wish you would appear to accept whatever verdict Doctor Jackson sees fit to give concerning the events that have happened here this morning, and that when he takes his departure you would ride away with him but that you would return almost immediately, if you can do so.”
“That is rather a strange request, is it not, sir?”
“Perhaps; but I have good reasons for making it, as you will discover later.”
“It would be scarcely a professional act on my part, sir.”
“Then call it the act of an expert. Doctor Pollock, I must be frank with you and rely upon your discretion also. I am not Mr. Parsons at all. I am a person of whom you have no doubt heard, a detective, named Nick Carter.”
“Indeed! Yes, sir, I have heard of you and I am glad to make your acquaintance. I will also be glad to serve you if you will tell me how I may do so.”