The old man's manner was, he thought, considerably changed for the better.

He received him with more complacency, and seemed as if he felt something like regret for the harshness of his manner toward him during his first visit.
"Well, sir," said he, "is it fair to ask you, how you have got on in ferritin' out this black business ?" There are some words so completely low and offensive in their own nature, that no matter how kind and honest the intention of the speaker may be, they are certain to vex and annoy those to whom they are applied.
"Ferreting out!" thought the stranger--"what does the old scoundrel mean ?" Yet, on second consideration, he could not for the soul of him avoid admitting that, considering the nature of the task he was engaged in, it was by no means an inappropriate illustration.
"No," said he, "we have made no progress, but we still trust that you will enable us to advance a step.

I have already told you that we only wish to come at the principals.

Their mere instruments we overlook.
You seem to be a poor man--but listen to me--if you can give us any assistance in this affair, you shall be an independent one during the remainder of your life.

Provided murder has not been committed I guarantee perfect safety to any person who may have only acted under the orders of a superior." "Take your time," replied the old man, with a peculiar expression.