"It is difficult to identify a man when you are only within gunshot of him—and after sundown," said Mr. Linden smiling.
"Difficult—yes, it may be,—but you gathered something?"
"I gathered a run."
"That is," said the doctor looking at him, "you have an opinion on the subject and are not willing to risk it?"
"No," said Mr. Linden, "I have had risk enough for one night."
"You are mistaken, Linden. A hint might be quite enough to bring out the certainty. My father is very eager about the matter, and is only waiting for you to empower him to act."
"I shall give you no hint," said Mr. Linden. "I might be willing to risk my own opinion, but not another man's character."
The doctor looked at him keenly and curiously.
"What possible motive!"—he said. "For it is evident that the shot was fired of intent, and evident that you yourself think so. It is unheard-of!"
"Were you bred to the bar, that you sum up evidence before it is given?" said Mr. Linden, with a good-humoured raising of his brows at the doctor.