Maxwell, unwilling to criminate himself, was in a sad dilemma; his ready wits alone could save him. But his hesitation procured him another instant of suffocation.
"I obtained the knowledge from De Guy," said he, at last.
"How! did he voluntarily betray the confidence of his employer?"
"No, from his inquiries concerning the affairs of the family, I suspected something; when the will was read my impressions were confirmed. I charged him with the crime."
"Did he acknowledge it?"
"He did."
"Then why did you not expose the plot?"
"It did not suit my purpose."
"What was your purpose?"
"To marry Miss Dumont."