"Yes, you told the newspapers so," retorted Annie dryly.
Taking no notice of her remark, the captain blustered:
"I've got your record, young woman! I know all about you and your folks. You knew the two men when they were at college. You knew Underwood before you made the acquaintance of young Jeffries. It was Underwood who introduced you to your husband. It was Underwood who aroused your husband's jealousy. You went to his rooms that night. Your husband followed you there, and the shooting took place!" Turning to Judge Brewster, he added, with a sarcastic grin: "False confession, eh? Hypnotism, eh? I guess it's international and constitutional law for yours after this."
"You don't say so?" exclaimed Annie, irritated at the man's intolerable insolence.
Judge Brewster held up a restraining hand.
"Please say nothing," he said with dignity.
"No, I guess I'll let him talk. Go on, captain," she said with a smile, as if thoroughly enjoying the situation.
Alicia came forward, her face pale, but on it a look of determination, as if she had quite made up her mind as to what course to pursue. In her hand was Underwood's letter. Addressing Annie, she said with emotion:
"The truth must come out sooner or later."
Seeing what she was about to do, Annie quickly put out her hand to stop her. She expected the banker's wife to do her duty, she had insisted that she must, but now she was ready to do it, she realized what it was costing her. Her position, her future happiness were at stake. It was too great a sacrifice. Perhaps there was some other way.