Having now obtained all the information that was possible to be gained
from this source, William returned to the agency, and entered the room
where Edwards was confined. He found the young man sitting with his
face buried in his hands and evidently in sore distress.

"Mr. Edwards," said William in his quick, imperious manner, "I have just
had an interview with your brother and sister, who have told me all they
know about this matter. You will readily see what little hope there is
left for you if you persist in keeping from us the information which we
desire. Whether you confess or not will make but little difference to us
now, as sooner or later your associates will be caught, and your refusal
to help us will only make it the harder for you. If you don't confess,
Eugene Pearson will."

As William uttered this last sentence Edwards started to his feet, and
exclaimed:

"My God, you know more than I thought! I will tell what I know."

At last we had succeeded in breaking him down, and there was a gleam of
satisfaction in William's eyes as he requested the presence of Mr.
Warner and my son Robert, while the story was being told.




CHAPTER XII.

The Confession of Newton Edwards--The foul Plot fully Explained--Eugene
Pearson's Guilt clearly Proven--A Story of Temptation and Crime.