The result of this speech was that the jury--already prejudiced--found Lester guilty; and immediately the wretched father was arrested by Inspector Drek.
CHAPTER X.
[THE PROPHECY AGAIN.]
When the inquest was over, and Dr. Lester had departed for Marborough gaol under the escort of Inspector Drek, the young journalist remained standing thoughtfully in the square before the inn. Nobody was surprised at the verdict, and everyone--as Paul could hear asserted on all sides--believed that Dr. Lester had murdered his own daughter while in a state of frenzy induced by intoxication. But Mexton had his doubts about the matter, principally on account of the words spoken by Iris when she wished him to cease from searching for the assassin. He wished to question her as to what she meant; and implore her, if she knew the truth, to reveal it and save her unfortunate stepfather. While he was considering the advisability of following Iris to Poverty Villa, he felt a touch on his arm. It was Eliza, and her face was grave.
"I want to speak t' you, sir, if y' don't mind," she said quietly, with an entire absence of her former self-importance; "but not here; I want t' speak you--alone."
"Why? Is anything wrong?"
"I think so, Mr. Mexton--and with Miss Iris."
"Miss Iris?" repeated Paul, glancing round. "Where is she?"
"She's gone home. You follow her, sir, and ask her a question."
"What kind of question?" demanded Paul, startled by this hint.