"Never!" exclaimed Somers, jumping to his feet.
"You speak too loud, Mr. Somers."
"Am I a dog, or a snake, or a toad, that I should do such an unclean thing?"
The traitor took from his pocket the oath of allegiance, opened it, and in silence thrust it into his companion's face.
"I have sold myself."
"You have, Somers. Think of it. If I have to make out a case against you, of course you will never see Kate again. Let me add, that the commodore sets his life by me. We were old friends before the war. You may marry his daughter with my consent, but not without it."
"I never thought of such a thing."
"Perhaps not. We waste time. Will you sign the bond?"
"The bond is good for nothing. No court—"
"That is my affair. If you agree to it, I will run all risks. I trouble no courts. If you don't pay, I have only to speak, and hang you then."