Chapter 54

_After a pause, BRODIE through the window_

BRODIE. Saved! And the _alibi_! Man, but you've been near it this time--near the rope, near the rope. Ah, boy, it was your neck, your neck you fought for. They were closing hell-doors upon me, swift as the wind, when I slipped through and shot for heaven! Saved! The dog that sold me, I settled him; and the other dogs are staunch. Man, but your _alibi_ will stand! Is the window fast? The neighbours must not see the Deacon, the poor, sick Deacon, up and stirring at this time o' night. Ay, the good old room in the good, cosy old house ... and the rat a dead rat, and all saved. (_He lights the candles._) Your hand shakes, sir? Fie! And you saved, and snug and sick in your bed, and _it_ but a dead rat after all? (_He takes off his hanger and lays it on the table._) Ay, it was a near touch. Will it come to the dock? If it does! You've a tongue and you've a head, and you've an _alibi_; and your _alibi_ will stand. (_He takes off his coat, takes out the dagger, and with a gesture of striking._) Home! He fell without a sob. "He breaketh them against the bosses of His buckler!" (_Lays the dagger on the table._) Your _alibi_ ... ah, Deacon, that's your life!... your _alibi_, your _alibi_. (_He takes up a candle and turns towards the door._) O!... Open, open, open! Judgment of God, the door is open!