He thought for a few moments, then asked if he could send a telegram. A form was brought him, and with a trembling hand he wrote the message.
* * * * *
The Court was packed from floor to ceiling when Rupert entered the dock between two warders. Not only were most of his fellow students present, but also a number of the chorus ladies from the Ingenue Theatre, who were sprinkled among the crowd, conspicuous by their bizarre hats and ultra-fashionable costumes. He at once noticed that his father was not at the counsels' table, and wondered that he should be late. The jurymen were already in their places, and immediately, on the judge taking his seat, Mr. Marshall rose and opened the case for the defence.
"My Lord and gentlemen of the jury—yesterday you heard the case for the prosecution, and the long chain of circumstantial evidence that all went to show the guilt of the prisoner at the bar. Had I known yesterday the facts I am about to put before you, I need scarcely say I should have interposed at once, and so saved a wasted day. We now have a complete answer to the charge—the best answer possible—the person who altered the cheque has come forward at the eleventh hour and has made a full confession."
A loud burst of conversation mingled with applause greeted this dramatic announcement, and when the ushers had secured silence the Judge spoke:
"If there is any repetition of this most improper demonstration, I shall clear the Court."
Mr. Mathew was already on his feet. "My Lord, may I ask my learned friend if he proposes to put in a written confession?"
Mr. Marshall signified assent.
"Then, m' Lord, I must object."
Mr. Marshall, who was still standing, replied at once: "It is an affidavit, my Lord, and as such is legal evidence."