CHAPTER VI

GREG PREPARES FOR FLIRTATION WALK


"For what reason, sir?" demanded the K.C. sharply.

Prescott opened his mouth, closed it again, without speaking,
then at last asked slowly:

"Sir, may I state my reasons in my own way?"

"Proceed, Mr. Prescott."

"My suspicion concerning a certain man, sir, does not cover a
really direct suspicion that he had a hand in the affair. His
remark led me only to infer that the man was present."

"That does not tell me, Mr. Prescott, why you have refused to
answer the question that I put to you," insisted Colonel Strong.

"My reason, sir, for respectfully declining to answer is twofold:
First, I do not know whether I am legally required to state a
suspicion only. My second reason, sir, is that to state the name
of the man I suspect would make me, in my own eyes, and in the
eyes of my comrades, a tale-bearer."