The attorney's answers seemed plausible. His actions were in conformity with his avowed purpose. If he wished to marry his mistress, he would not have joined in the plot. But the bill of sale, which Emily had mentioned to him, was against him. Poor Hatchie was no lawyer, and was sadly perplexed by the conflicting testimony.
"Where did you get that bill of sale?" said he.
Again the attorney hesitated, and again Hatchie pulled the rope till he was ready to answer.
"Is it a forgery?" said Hatchie, slackening the rope.
"Probably it is," replied Maxwell.
"Who wrote it?"
"De Guy."
"This De Guy is a most consummate villain, and shall yet be brought to justice. But how came it in your possession?"
"I received it from De Guy, as the agent of Mr. Dumont. In fine, I bought the girl," said Maxwell, maliciously.
Hatchie's temper had nearly got the better of him, for he made a spring on the rope, which threatened death to the attorney. But his judgment overcame his passion, and he again turned his attention to the great object before him.