Ryder. My lord, if you please, am I to be miscalled—by a murderess?
The Judge. Come, come, this is no place for recrimination.
The prisoner now stooped and examined her papers, and took a distinct line of cross-examination.
Prisoner (with apparent carelessness). At all events, you are a virtuous woman, Mrs. Ryder?
Ryder. Yes, madam, as virtuous as yourself, to say the least.
Prisoner (still more carelessly). Married or single?
Ryder. Single, and like to be.
Prisoner. Yes, if I remember right, I made a point of that before I engaged you as my maid.
Ryder. I believe the question was put.
Prisoner. Here is the answer in your handwriting. Is not that your handwriting?