I tell
you it makes a terrible difference when you know that some one else
knows. Your uncle Frank understands now that two men know--me and
Perry. He knows I'm hangin' around somewhere in this world, ready to
spring on him. Yep; there's no more peace for him, no more sleep.
He'll blow his brains out, perhaps. But he'll also do this first:
he'll write a confession. They never fail to do that, these guys that
have remorse."
David Jenison placed his hands on the other's shoulders as he arose
from the chair. The Virginian's eyes were glowing with a light that
dazzled the pickpocket. "Dick Cronk," said he, hoarse with the emotion
which moved him, "I would do anything in the world for you. You are
the best fellow I know. I don't care what you are, I want to be your
friend as long as we live. I mean that. Some day I may be able to do
something half as great for you. I'll do it, no matter what it costs."
Dick was abashed. He was not used to this. His eyes wavered.
"Oh, thunder," he said in a futile attempt to sneer. "Let's say no
more about it. It was just fun for me. Besides, David," he continued,
meeting the other's gaze fairly, "you stood by Ernie that day.
Pages:
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283
284
285
286