“A disinterested witness, truly!” exclaimed Vane forcing a laugh. “A concocted scheme, as you may perceive, Mr. Wilton; surely you are not prepared to condemn me upon such an infamous machination as this?”
The door at this moment opened, and Nathan Gomer entered, followed by a sturdy looking man.
He pointed to Lester Vane.
“There is your man, officer!” he exclaimed.
Lester Vane uttered an exclamation of fright; he darted from his chair and made for the open window. The height was something, but he paused not to think of it, and leaped out to the ground below.
“Villain! you shall not thus escape my rightful vengeance!” shouted Hugh Riversdale, and dashed after him.
The officer, however, sprang upon him, and seizing him by the collar, detained him.
“Hold, sir!” he cried; “there is a man below to prevent his escape. Besides, he must have broken his limbs, if he has not his head.”
Gomer stood watching excitedly the movements of Vane and Hugh, at the elbow of Wilton. The latter, with a sudden faintness, clutched at Gomer’s arm.
“Support me, or I shall swoon!” he exclaimed.