Nathan raised his head proudly, and looked the Judge straight in the eyes.
"I am guiltless," he said, in low, firm tones.
A murmur burst from the crowd, and exclamations could be heard.
"Not guilty! And the cup found in his house!"
"Coward dog! Will he not yet confess?"
"The scourge is too good for him!"
"Have you no explanation to offer?" asked the judge.
"None."
"Then, guards, place him in irons to await our further pleasure. In the meantime forty lashes of the scourge. Next!"
Nathan walked out with firm step and head erect. A low sob burst from some one in the crowd. It was the wife of Nathan, weeping, while little Manasseh and Mary clung to her weeping too.