"I suspected it all the time," muttered the prisoner.
"You did? She found Victoria reading a letter from you, and in a fit of insane jealousy she stole upon and drove this dagger into her throat. Last night the poor woman died penitent, and made a full confession before two witnesses."
"If this is true, then we cannot detain the prisoner," said one of the officers.
"Release me at once," demanded Barkswell.
"Not so," cried Shanks. He must be held, for he is guilty of other crimes. The woman who died last night was murdered by poison administered by the hand of her husband, the man you now hold a prisoner. Dr. Wise has the proof that he will produce in good time. Furthermore, this man has another crime to answer for.
"He attempted to murder August Bordine, but failed. He did, however, assassinate his wife's brother, and buried the body in the cellar of an old shanty in the woods upon Bear Creek."
"That is false," uttered Barkswell, yet trembling and paling with fear.
"I have the proof," declared Shanks.
"What proof?"
"My eyesight. I saw you bury your victim!"