Page:The Prime Minister by Hall Caine.djvu/115

Rh circumstance to worm my way into this house. I did prey upon the weakness and affection of that Swiss girl to lend herself to this exchange. I did come to peek and pry and poke my nose into every corner of your public and private life, so that I might betray you to my country. I did intend to make you suffer in the person of your child, not only by poisoning her mind against you, but perhaps by stealing her away from you altogether—  [Rising, threateningly.] What?  [Flaming up, wildly.] As you stole my father from me when you put him in prison and left him to die there.  [Sitting.] I'm not going to argue with you, my girl—to discuss the differences between law and crime. The Commissioner will be here presently, and the only question is what I am to do with you.  [Fiercely.] Do what you like with me.  I have only to say, "This woman is of enemy origin. She has come into my house in a false name and character——"  Say it, then—say it!