"But, need I go? Can I not send?" asked Hanbury, not liking the idea of such a message from such a man to such a man. It looked like shielding a criminal. Leigh had, according to his own account, coquetted with crime, but kept clear of it.
"No, it would not be nearly so good to me, for you know the secrets, and if he showed any disposition to rebel, you could drop a word that would convince him you were authorized by me, and knew what might be dangerous to him."
"You are asking me too much. I cannot do it."
"Where is your promise of a moment ago?"
"No honest man would assist the escape of this thief."
"Hush! Let me think awhile."
"It is not clear to me, that I ought not to give this villain up to the police, and that you are not bound to give him up. I would do anything I could, in reason, for you; but is it reasonable to ask me to carry a message from you to a man who, you tell me, or hint to me, is a thief, or receiver of stolen goods?"
"I did not regard it in that way. I fancied you would like to rid the country of such a man."
"Yes, by locking him up. I think you are in duty bound to denounce him."
"But, in honour, I am bound not; and honour is more binding on a man than any law."