“Well, sir, can you suggest one?” asked the other civilly.
“Suicide, of course.”
“With the pistol there in the burglar’s own hand?”
“Well, he made none, you say.”
“No, I don’t say it. He declared it was ridiculous attempting a defence, while he lacked his one essential witness to confirm it. He protested only that the lady would vindicate him if she could speak.”
“O, of course!”
“Yes, of course; and of course you say it. But he spoke the truth, sir, for all that, as you’ll see.
“He was lodged in Norwich Jail, biding the finish. But, before the hangman could get him—that time, at least—he managed to break out, damaging a warder by the way. The dogs of the law were let loose, naturally; but, while they were in full cry, Mr. Hussey, if you’ll believe me, walks into a local attorney’s office with Miss Ellen on his arm.”
Brindley turned in his chair, and gave a little condescending laugh.
“Incredible, ain’t it?” said the Deputy Clerk. “But listen, now, to the affidavits of the pair, and judge for yourselves. We’ll take Miss Ellen’s first, plain as I can make it:—