Page:Paul Clifford Vol 3.djvu/309

Rh, and when they had finished, he addressed them thus:—

"I have heard you, and am convinced you are liars and impostors: there is the money I promised you—(throwing down a pocket-book)—take it—and, hark you, if ever you dare whisper—ay, but a breath of the atrocious lie you have now forged, be sure I will have you dragged from the recess or nook of infamy in which you may hide your heads, and hanged for the crimes you have already committed. I am not the man to break my word—begone!—quit this town instantly: if, in two hours hence you are found here, your blood be on your own heads!—Begone, I say!"

These words, aided by a countenance well adapted at all times to expressions of a menacing and ruthless character, at once astounded and appalled our accomplices. They left the room in hasty confusion; and Brandon, now alone, walked with uneven steps (the alarming weakness and vacillation of which he did not himself feel) to and fro the apartment. The hell of his breast was stamped upon his features, but he uttered only one thought aloud!