I
need not tell you what we could do with you if we liked. Now, just
consider, my friend. I don't want you to give up one single
principle; but is it worth your while to be sent to jail and to have
your home broken up merely because you want to achieve your object in
the wrong way, and in a foolish way? Keep your principles; we do not
object; but don't go out into the road with them. And you, as an
intelligent man, must see that you will not get what you desire by
violence as soon as you will by lawful methods. Is the difference
between us worth such a price as you will have to pay?"
The Secretary hesitated; he could not speak; he was very faint and
nervous.
"Ah, you've had nothing to eat, I dare say."
The bell was rung, and was answered immediately.
"Bring some bread and cheese and beer."
The bread and cheese and beer were brought.
"Sit down there and have something; I will go on with my work, and we
will finish our talk afterwards."
The Secretary could not eat much bread and cheese, but he drank the
beer greedily.
When he had finished the clerk left the room. The Commissioner--for
he was one of the Commissioners of His Majesty's Treasury--followed
him to the door, closed it, not without satisfying himself that the
constable was at his post outside, returned to his seat, opened his
drawer, saw that a pistol and five guineas were there, and then
began:
"Now, look here, my dear sir, let me speak plainly with you and come
to an understanding.
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