A few minutes later, however, when he had had time for reflection, I spoke my mind further, saying —
“Now, Mr. Franklin, tell us the truth. You and your friends meant to possess yourselves of the chests we have just discovered, did you not?”
“We certainly did,” was his prompt response. Then, after a short pause, he added: “I think, doctor, if you will reflect, you’ll see that even you and I have certain interests in common.”
“How?” I inquired.
“It is to your interest to preserve the secret of your find, eh? I heard you say so down there ten minutes ago.”
“Well, I suppose it is!”
“It is also of the highest importance to you to discover the heir of Clement Wollerton?”
“Certainly.”
“Well, then, I think I can assist you in both,” he answered. “I am not a murderer, as you believe, although I confess to having assisted the others in their ingenious conspiracy. I know quite well that sooner or later they must fall into the hands of the police; nevertheless, if you will allow me freedom to escape and promise to take no steps against me, I will, on my part, give you a pledge of secrecy regarding your discovery of the treasure, and will also warn you of the plot against your life.”
“Against my life!” I echoed. “What plot?”