But I shrank before this calm ruthlessness.
Another long pause followed.

Then the President said: "I am sorry for all this, Martin--sorry you and I came to blows." "You played me false about the money," I said bitterly.
"Yes, yes," he answered gently; "I don't blame you.

You were bound to me by no ties.

Of course you saw my plan ?" "I supposed your Excellency meant to keep the money and throw me over." "Not altogether," he said.

"Of course I was bound to have the money.
But it was the other thing, you know.