He was deeply stricken by the other's words, the passionate, eloquent outburst that in a few sharp, clear-cut strokes had so convincingly presented the man's bitter case against humanity, his complete apologia and justification for all that could be laid to his charge.

His lordship looked at that keen, intrepid face gleaming lividly in the light of the great poop lantern, and his own eyes were troubled.

He was abashed.
He fetched a heavy sigh.

"A pity," he said slowly.

"Oh, blister me--a cursed pity!" He held out his hand, moved to it on a sudden generous impulse.