The old woman looked into Mary Margaret’s eyes an instant, searchingly, but with kindness, and answered,—
“Yes, if you say it is true, I shall believe it.”
“God bless ye forever and ever for that same!” exclaimed the Irish woman warmly, and she went out, satisfied that she had obtained a friend for her protégé.
CHAPTER XXVIII.
JANE KELLY ON HER TRIAL.
The morning on which Jane Kelly was to have her hearing, found Madame De Marke punctual. The judge, who recognized her real position, was comparatively deferential; for wealth, even when allied with degradation, is not without power. Besides, her manner, as on the evening before, bespoke considerable knowledge of good society and its usages.
Madame De Marke repeated the conversation which she had already stated. A lawyer, employed by her, was also in attendance. Jane was without professional aid.
“The case seems clear,” said the judge, when Madame De Marke had closed her testimony. “What have you to say? You may speak now!” he added, turning to the prisoner.
The girl had frequently interrupted Madame De Marke until the judge had sternly ordered her, more than once, to keep silence; and now her suppressed rage found short and bitter words.
“She deserves the State’s prison more than I do!” cried Jane, white with passion, and looking at Madame De Marke as if she could have stabbed her to the heart. “She is ten thousand times worse than a thief”—
“Stick to the point,” interposed the judge. “The question is not, what this lady may, or may not have done; but what proof there is that you did not steal the jewel.”