He and two of his keenest men have been carefully watching Anson ever since." "Humph! Quite right," said the director, and he glanced at Anson, who was smiling contemptuously then; but West had seen him wince sharply when Ingleborough mentioned the superintendent's name.

"Well," continued the director, "let us hear your version of this business." "Really, gentlemen," cried Anson, "I ought to have the assistance of a law officer and--" "Stop, Mr Anson," said the director sharply; "we have heard you all through.

Have the goodness to be silent now while Mr Ingleborough gives us his statement." "But legal assistance, sir." "You can have as much as you like, sir, as soon as the matter is brought before the magistrates.

We must first of all hear what Mr Ingleborough has to say.

Now, sir, have the goodness to tell us everything you know about this business." Ingleborough made his statement perfectly clearly, and it was listened to in silence, and the diamonds were produced.
Afterwards the three directors spoke together in a low tone of voice for a few minutes, ending by turning to Anson to tell him that he must consider himself for the present as suspended from all further duty in connection with the company's business.
"We have no desire to proceed to extremities, Mr Anson," he said in conclusion, "and every opportunity will be given you to clear yourself; but in the meantime you must consider yourself under supervision, and your lodgings will be searched." "I protest, sir," cried the young man warmly.