"Is that why you let the assassin go?"
Dan rose to the situation without hesitating.
"Mr. Howland, you were fishing when you asked that question. You don't
have to do that. I did let that chap go. I believed he had attempted a
good job. I saved Rodriguez's worthless life and took a risk in doing
it. I would not have done so, but I thought the man was aiming at you;
but since I did, the only reward I was entitled to, or wanted, was to do
as I pleased with the man."
"Undoubtedly," said Mr. Howland. "Of course it occurred to you that
Rodriguez's life, however worthless you hold it in other ways, might be
extremely valuable to the San Blanco Trading and Investment Company,
which is myself?"
"Yes, I did think of that," replied Dan, "although I am employed by the
Coastwise Company, I know you practically own both. I realize, too, your
kindness to me in the past; but I did look on the fellow as a man
honestly trying to serve his country; and when it came to deliver him up
to be hanged--why I simply could not do it." Dan rose slowly. "I showed
myself ungrateful to your interests. As I say, I appreciate what you
have done. I am going to show that I do by asking you to consider my
resignation in your hands to act upon as soon--whenever you please."
"Sit down, Captain Merrithew," said Mr.
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