That man's charges
are not entitled to a reply from me."
"But see here, mister, that won't do."
"What won't do?"
"If his charges are true you have been playing me."
"I have been playing you?"
"Yes."
"How?"
"Well, you understand your purpose. I don't. But one thing is certain:
you must make a full confession, or I will hold you responsible for any
interpretation I may put upon his charges."
Oscar apparently began to sober up, and he said:
"I do not choose to make any explanations."
"What do you know about this man?" demanded Girard, addressing the
accuser.
"He is a reward seeker--a man who will ingratiate himself into the
company of gentlemen. If he gets into a private game of cards he reports
a gambling game and has gentlemen arrested. He is a general spy and
sneak--a man who will go into court and perjure himself for a bribe, and
he has made trouble for many a good fellow. He has hired witnesses,
perjurers, at his beck and call. He is always up to some game. He is, in
short, a lying, miserable rascal; that is what he is, and I know him."
"These are very grave charges," repeated Girard.
"Yes, and I will not remain to listen to them."
"But you will remain."
"I will?"
"Yes."
"Who says so?"
"I do. You shall not steal into my house to spy and sneak on me, and get
away.
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