The lawyer looked at the weeping woman in silence. Then slowly and gravely he said:
"I can't believe it possible that you are associated with your husband in the commission of this crime—no— I am ready to acquit you of that."
"What do you intend to do first?" demanded Tod anxiously.
"The lawyer remained thoughtful for a moment. Then he said:
"I want you both to remain here until I have your sworn testimony as to the facts of the case. Then I shall proceed to have Mr. James Marsh and Mr. Bascom Cooley arrested for criminal conspiracy!"
"It seems rather hard to make my mother testify against her own husband," objected the younger man.
"It's perfectly disgraceful," sobbed Mrs. Marsh, "but I'll do whatever must be done."
"Well—we won't discuss that question now," replied Mr. Ricaby hastily, "the important thing is to get Miss Marsh out of this place as soon as possible."
Suddenly Tod gave a wild whoop and darted towards the stairs. On the top landing he had spied Paula standing with Dr. McMutrie by her side.
"Here she is!" he cried.