“I’m sure on it, sir; this young feller’s accomplice was a desperate ruffian—​there aint no mistake about that. My belief is he would not care about committing murder.”

“I dare say not. Todd said he was a desperate ruffian.”

No. 73.

HE GAVE THE ORDER TO THE PLATOON TO FIRE, AND FELL INSTANTLY.

“He was all that, sir.”

“The case is a most remarkable one—​remarkable and singular in many ways; but I think we shall not need your evidence upon the first examination.”

“Not need it!” cried Ashbrook, in a tone of surprise.

“Well, no, I fancy not. It will be my duty to remand the prisoner, and you can give your evidence at the second examination.”

“Why not to-morrow? I took an active part in the scrimmage,” observed Ashbrook.