He not only failed to move my pity--he was in danger of stirring up my contempt.
"I too have suffered," I answered.

"I too have been compelled to endure.
But there is this difference between us.

_My_ courage is not worn out.

In your place, if I knew myself to be an honorable man, I would not allow the breath of suspicion to rest on me for an instant.

Cost what it might, I would vindicate myself.