human
Frank Norris!
gpt
Yes, it's I, sir, Frank said;
human
I don't ask you to take my hand, for you believe me guilty of the crime of which I was accused here. I can only say now, as I said then, that I am innocent. I know now that I was a fool to run away instead of facing it out, but I was desperate, because every one thought me guilty.
gpt
Your schoolfellows did not, Norris, Mr. Richards said.
human
I don't think that I did, even at first; a few hours afterwards I almost knew you were innocent, and had you not run away I could have gone far to prove it.
gpt
Then why did you not prove it, sir? Why did you allow my nephew to remain with the foul disgrace on his name?
human
I did not act without consideration, Mr. Richards said calmly.
gpt
Norris had gone, and I resolved if he returned again to say what I had learned; but my proofs were not absolute. We had made, it seemed to me, a terrible mistake, and I did not wish to cause ruin to another boy unless it was absolutely necessary to do so to clear Norris. Now that he has returned I can no longer hesitate; but before I begin I must ask you both whether your suspicions have fallen on any one else?