"This conversation must be painful to us," I said. "Let us make an
end to it. Bolling attacked me, as you know. My friend and brother
here saved me and drove him away. We have a lock of Bolling's hair
in proof of the attempt.
"The watch are now searching for Bolling. The governor will shortly
be apprised. 'Tis in your interest to do what you can to clear
yourself of responsibility for so dastardly a crime."
One of the merchants at the table, a very decent-appearing man,
soberly dressed and with much good sense in his face, caught me up.
"'Tis not strange that you should have come to Master Murray after
such an attempt as you mention, sir," he began in conciliatory
fashion. "But fortunately we were present this afternoon when Master
Murray dismissed the man from his employ, in consequence of evidence
of his dishonesty and misdealing during Master Murray's absence.
Bolling left in a great rage, vowing he would put Master Murray in
trouble."
"Aye," spoke up a second merchant, "and sure, the knave must have
attacked you hoping 'twould be brought against Master Murray."
"Not to speak of the fact he was in great need of funds, Master
Murray having refused to grant certain demands he made," suggested a
third.