A deep crimson overspread the face of Mr. Rowley.
"I didn't expect insult when I came here," said he in a trembling voice.
"Nor have I offered any," replied Mr. Lane.
"You have thought proper to ask me a number of very pointed questions, and I have merely answered them according to my views of truth."
"You make a very sweeping declaration," said one of the friends of Rowley. "Suppose you give some proof of your assertion?"
"That I can readily do if it is desired."
"I desire it, then," said Rowley.
"Do you remember the five bales of cotton you sold to Peterson?" inquired Mr. Lane.
Rowley replied that he did, but evinced some uneasiness of manner at the question.
"They were damaged," said Lane.