“I shall have some difficulty in working the papers. Sir Richard Tester is a man who carries a good deal of weight, and he did not mince matters to-day. It is probable that the more influential journals will regard the case as an attempt to close Gaunt’s mouth, and as I have already told you, our press is not easily handled. Besides, newspapers may not comment upon a case which is sub judice.”
“You think that the bringing of the case was a mistake?”
“Yes, inasmuch as bail was granted. Gaunt’s meetings will be packed and now the British public will look upon him as something of a martyr.”
“You must persuade your Amanti friends to prosecute him. They can’t say that I have a hand in that and the two cases together may make some impression.”
“It might be done, but Gaunt is a powerful man, and my friend might not like the task of fighting him,” Sherren said slowly.
“What kind of a man is he—as unscrupulous as yourself?”
“Pardon me, Baron, but there is no need to insult me.”
“Can you bribe him?” the Baron asked impatiently.
“He might be prepared to accept a pecuniary inducement,” Sherren answered cautiously.
“Sound him, and let me know the result. Now you can go.”