It was sheer accident, of course, that I ever discovered it.

But--I know! Just consider what I do know.

Consider, too, what you stand to lose.
There's Mallalieu, so much respected that he's Mayor of this ancient borough for the second time.

There's you--so much trusted that you've been Borough Treasurer for years.

You can't afford to let me tell the Highmarket folk that you two are ex-convicts! Besides, in your case there's another thing--there's your daughter." Cotherstone groaned--a deep, unmistakable groan of sheer torture.