"Why, sir," he said, "I think not."
He seemed, I thought, in a very pitiable state. (I learned some months later that he was come down expressly to dissuade Rumbald from any attempt at that time; but I did not know that then.) Here, only, thought I, is one of the chicken-hearted ones. I determined to play upon his fears, if I could, and at the same time, perhaps, upon his hopes.
"I think I can, however," I said. "You would be out of the business, if you could, would you not?"
He turned so white that I thought he would have fallen. I saw that my shot had told; but it was not a hard one to make.
"Hold up, man," I said. "Why, what do you suppose I am here for?"
"What business, sir?" he said. "I do not know what you mean."
I smiled; so that he could see me do it.
"Very good, then," I said. "I will leave you to Mr. Rumbald;" and I made as if I would pass on.
"Sir," he said, "can you give me any assurance?… I am terrified." And indeed he looked it; so I supposed that he thought that the attempt was indeed to be made to-day. I determined on a bold stroke.
"My man!" I said. "If you will tell me your name, and then begone at once, back to town, I will tell you something that will be of service to you. If not—" and I broke off.