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THE SIAMESE CAT

pert, my boy, and you're no fool. Now honestly, I can't tell you the real facts just yet; but will this do? I prevailed on the old lady—pardon me: Mrs. Holborow—to come away for her health. That was true, for the place was getting too hot, in every sense. We're all absolutely safe now. And I give you my word that when we reach Singapore, I'll explain everything. Show you the whole bag of tricks. Come now, that's fair."

They stumbled out over the high threshold, for the ship had begun to scend in a rising sea.

"That's fair," repeated Borkman. "You couldn't force me to say a word, you know. But I like your style."

Scarlett gave an unsociable grunt:

"Needn't bother, unless it's the truth."

"The whole truth, when we land," replied the big man, cheerfully. "And mind you, we're not in the slightest danger now."

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