The prosecutor winked at the jury, and the Judge once more summoned the apostolic-looking complainant to the chair.
"You realize, sir, the terrible consequences to this young man should you be mistaken? Are you quite sure that he is one of the persons who robbed you?" he inquired with becoming gravity.
The witness raised himself by his cane, and stepping down to where the prisoner sat, gazed searchingly into his stolid face.
"God knows," said he, "I wouldn't harm a hair of his head. But by all that's holy, I swear he's the man who took my ring."
A wave of interest passed over the assembled attorneys. That was business for you! No use to cross-examine an old fellow like him. There was a great nodding of heads and shuffling of feet.
"Do you think you could identify your other assailant if you should see him?" continued the judge.
"I'm sure of it," calmly replied the witness.
"Very well, sir," continued his Honor; "see if you can do so."
Half of the audience moved uneasily, and glanced longingly toward the closed means of exit. A woman tittered hysterically. The witness slowly descended, and, escorted by a policeman, began his inspection, scrutinizing each face with care. Quietly he moved along the first bench, and then, gently shaking his head, along the second. The interest became breathless. A sigh of relief rippled along the settees after him. The only spectator unmoved by what was taking place was Supple Jim, who smiled genially at the old gentleman as the latter glanced at him and passed on. Four rows—five rows—six rows—seven rows. At last there was but one bench left, and the excitement reached the point of ebullition. Would he find him? Were they going to be disappointed after all? Only half a bench left! Only two men left! Ah! what was that? People shoved one another in the back, craning their heads to see what was doing in the distant corner where the complainant stood. Suddenly the searcher faced the Judge, and, pointing to the last occupant of the rear settee, announced with conviction:
"Your Honor, this is the other man!"