This reply caused a sensation in the court.
"I suppose," said the magistrate, "that you realise that this is a serious admission."
"It is the truth."
"Perhaps you can explain it to the satisfaction of the court."
"I assumed the name," said Scarsdale with an effort, "to screen from possible annoyance a lady who was under my protection. With the permission of the court, however, I should prefer not to go into this matter further, as it has no direct bearing on the charge. My action was foolish, and I have been punished for it."
"You certainly chose an unfortunate alias," commented the magistrate drily, and, much to the prisoner's relief, turned to another phase of the case.
"What are you doing in Winchester?"
"I am on my honeymoon. I was married yesterday."
A titter of laughter ran round the court-room; but the magistrate frowned, and continued:
"I suppose that is the reason why you registered under an assumed name, and are travelling with somebody else's wife?"