By this time the perspiration was streaming down Carrington's face. He was now in danger of his life and knew it only too well. Yet the man was brave enough, and doggedly refused to admit what was said, in spite of the overwhelming evidence. Rupert had no cause to love his treacherous friend, and regretted that he was obliged to have him arrested; yet he could not help admiring the persistent way in which the man fought for his liberty and life.
"Who accuses me of being in Barship on that night," he demanded, raising his head, "a drunken doctor and a senile sexton. Those are nice witnesses. They have been bribed by Mallien to save his own skin."
"I don't waste money in unnecessary bribes," snapped Mallien.
"And I don't take money for performing my duty," said the doctor frowning. "I have one great fault which everyone knows of. I may be a drunkard, but I am not a murderer," he finished scathingly.
"I am not a murderer," persisted Carrington, fighting desperately, and gaining courage, now that he found himself with his back to the wall. "I never came down to Barship on that night. I can prove that I was in London."
"You will have every opportunity of clearing yourself at the trial," said Rupert, glancing at his watch. "Lawson will be here soon with a warrant for your arrest."
"No! No! No!" The cry was forced from the barrister against his will. "It is impossible for Lawson to arrest me. I never saw Leigh on that night."
Titus Ark rose in a creaky manner from his chair, and shambled toward the miserable man. "I do say as you did see 'um," he croaked.
"And so does Tollart," snapped Mallien; "that is, he can say you were in Barship on that night. Hark, Hendle. I believe Lawson has arrived."
Rupert hurried to the window and saw a vehicle pass round the corner toward the front door. "It's a trap and not a motor," he said puzzled. "Who can it be, I wonder?"
"I know; I know," said Titus, shuffling toward the door. "I know one as can say you saw Muster Leigh on that night"; and he disappeared.
"More lies," said Carrington, wiping his face. "Oh, I'll make you all pay dearly for this day's work"; and he wiped his face, while he set his teeth to battle to the end.
There was a shuffling noise in the hall, and Rupert stepped toward the door. He opened it and then fell back with a cry of amazement. Supported by Titus and his grandson, Simon Leigh staggered into the room.