"Naw, sir," Ned admitted, in grievous agitation.
Perhaps his youth and his hard straits and the terrible future which seemed impending over him touched the justice. He gave a little line. He felt that he hardly exceeded the intention of the restrictions of his office in prompting the defendant, helping him out, in view of his youth, inexperience, and friendlessness,—giving him a chance to tell his story and establish, if it might, his innocence.
"Do you want to tell how you saw the play?"
"Yes, sir," said Ned, plucking up heart of grace.
"And how you got out?"
"Got out of the window wher' I got in."
"Do you want to tell why you did not go out at the back door?"
"Didn't know wher' 't wuz," replied Ned.
All these facts were being incorporated in the written statement of Ned's own account of himself, which when finished would be read to him, and which he might sign or not, as he would, but the magistrate would annex the reason for no signature in case he should refuse. It was beginning to take a definite value, and the two returned to this unique method of getting at the facts with renewing spirit. Alas for the next question!
"Do you want to tell why you did not follow the employees to the back door?"