"Oi'll not answer," was the stubborn return.
CHAPTER XII
FOR AND AGAINST
There was a moment of intense silence throughout the courtroom. Every eye was turned on Mary Billings, who pursed up her lips more closely than ever.
"You'll not answer?" thundered Coroner Busby.
"Mr. Coroner," began Raymond, rising, "is it legally necessary that she answer? Remember, she is here without proper legal council."
"Silence! I—ahem—yes, she must answer, or I shall have to commit her, as a witness if for nothing else. Girl, are you going to answer or not?"
"Sure, an' Oi—"
"Chief, will you call a policeman?" went on the coroner, turning to the chief of police.
He was a fairly good judge of human character. At the sight of the bluecoat the domestic wilted and began to sob.