Whatever Braddock might have thought, Hope, from the
expression on the young soldier's face, was more than ever
satisfied of his innocence.
"What are you talking about, Professor?" asked Random, genuinely
surprised.
"You know well enough," retorted the Professor.
"Upon my word I don't," said the other, walking into the room and
unbuckling his sword. "I find you here, with the contents of my
bookcase on the floor, and you promptly accuse me of being
guilty. Of what, I should like to know? Perhaps you can tell me
Hope."
"There is no need for Hope to tell you, sir. You are perfectly
well aware of your own villainy."
Random frowned.
"I allow a certain amount of latitude to my guests, Professor,"
he said with marked dignity, "but for a man of your age and
position you go too far. Be more explicit."
"Allow me to speak," intervened Archie, anticipating Braddock.
"Random, the Professor has just had a visit from Captain Hiram
Hervey, who was the skipper of The Diver. He accuses you of
having murdered Bolton!"
"What?" the baronet started back, looking thunderstruck.
"Wait a moment. I have not finished yet. Hervey accuses you of
this murder, of stealing the mummy, of gaining possession of the
emeralds, and of placing the rifled corpse in Mrs.
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