Judge Brewster looked sternly at her. Holding up the letter, he said:
"What is the meaning of this? You are not the woman to whom this letter is addressed?"
"No," stammered Annie, "that is——"
The judge interrupted her. Sternly he asked:
"Is it your intention to go on the witness stand and commit perjury?"
"I don't know. I never thought of that," she faltered.
The judge turned to Alicia.
"Are you going to allow her to do so, Mrs. Jeffries?"
"No, no," cried Alicia quickly, "I never thought of such a thing."
"Then I repeat—is it your intention to perjure yourself?" Annie was silent, and he went on: "I assume it is, but let me ask you: Do you expect me, as your counsel, to become participes criminis to this tissue of lies? Am I expected to build up a false structure for you to swear to? Am I?"