Pagina 375 van 416

"Schofield didn't send for you--I sent for you. There are several

things about this imprisonment of Code that don't look right to

me, and we may as well settle the whole business once and for all

while we are here together. Now, Mr. Durkee," she said, turning

to the detective, "would you mind telling me what the charge is

against Captain Schofield?"

"To tell you the truth, ma'am," said he respectfully, "there are

two charges out against him. One, by the insurance company, sues

for recovery of money paid on the schooner May Schofield, and

charges that the said schooner was sunk intentionally, first

because Schofield wanted a newer boat, and second because the

policy of the May was to expire in a few days and could not have

been renewed except at a much advanced rate."

"And the other charge?"

"Is for murder in the first degree, growing out of the

intentional sinking of the schooner. Captain Burns is the

complainant."