CHAPTER XII
THE LAND OF THE DRUM
ALAN went with Wassaquam into the front library, after the Indian had shown Spearman out.
"This was the man, Judah, who came for Mr. Corvet that night I was hurt?"
"Yes, Alan," Wassaquam said.
"He was the man, then, who came here twice a year, at least, to see Mr. Corvet."
"Yes."
"I was sure of it," Alan said. Wassaquam had made no demonstration of any sort since he had snatched at Spearman's wrist to hold him back when Alan had bent to the drawer. Alan could define no real change now in the Indian's manner; but he knew that, since Wassaquam had found him quarreling with Spearman, the Indian somehow had "placed" him more satisfactorily. The reserve, bordering upon distrust, with which Wassaquam had observed Alan, certainly was lessened. It was in recognition of this that Alan now asked, "Can you tell me now why he came here, Judah?"
"I have told you I do not know," Wassaquam replied. "Ben always saw him; Ben gave him money. I do not know why."
