human
It is not so strange, she said at last,
gpt
Yes, he admitted, his hands gripping the back of the bench nervously, his eyes filled with amazement
human
But--but I do not know you.
gpt
For the best of reasons, she answered smilingly, advancing and extending her hand--
human
You--you mean it was not an accident--that I was brought here purposely?
gpt
Exactly; you were trailed from New York by a gang of thieves having confederates in this country. I am unable to give you all the details; but this man Beaton, whom you met on the train, is a notorious gunman and gambler. His being on the same train with you was a part of a well-laid plan, and I have no doubt but what he deliberately slugged you while you two were alone on the observation platform. As I understand, that is exactly his line of work.
human
But--but, he stammered,
gpt
Why! Money, no doubt; you are wealthy, are you not?
human
Yes, to an extent. I inherited property, but I had no considerable sum with me that day; not more than a few hundred dollars.
gpt
As I told you, Mr. Cavendish, I do not know all the details, but I think these men--one of whom is a lawyer--planned to gain possession of your fortune, possibly by means of a forged will; and, in order to accomplish this, it was necessary to get you out of the way. It looks as though they were afraid to resort to actual murder, but ready enough to take any other desperate chance. Do you see what I mean?
human
They will rob me! While holding me here a prisoner they propose robbing me through the courts?
gpt
That is undoubtedly their object, but, I happen to know, it has not yet been fully accomplished. If either of us can make escape from this place we shall be in time to foil them completely.
human
But how, he questioned, still confused and with only the one thought dominating his mind,
gpt
They are prepared to prove you dead. I believed so myself. The only way to convince the courts otherwise will be your appearance in person. After they once get full possession of the money they do not care what becomes of you. Living or dead, you can never get it back again.