"
"And the police haven't; nor will they, to the best of my belief.
Now, look here, Captain Croker, this is a very serious matter,
though I am willing to admit that you acted under the most extreme
provocation to which any man could be subjected. I am not sure
that in defence of your own life your action will not be pronounced
legitimate. However, that is for a British jury to decide.
Meanwhile I have so much sympathy for you that if you choose to
disappear in the next twenty-four hours I will promise you that
no one will hinder you."
"And then it will all come out?"
"Certainly it will come out."
The sailor flushed with anger.
"What sort of proposal is that to make a man? I know enough
of law to understand that Mary would be had as accomplice.
Do you think I would leave her alone to face the music while
I slunk away? No, sir; let them do their worst upon me,
but for Heaven's sake, Mr. Holmes, find some way of keeping
my poor Mary out of the courts."
Holmes for a second time held out his hand to the sailor.
"I was only testing you, and you ring true every time.
Well, it is a great responsibility that I take upon myself,
but I have given Hopkins an excellent hint, and if he can't
avail himself of it I can do no more.
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