The moment at length arrived, and a court was detailed to examine into his case. Upon its decision the fate of Edgar Sherwood rested.
The assembly was quite large, consisting of the troops and nearly all the civilians living in the vicinity. There were three judges, clad in the martial vestments of their profession, and maintaining a gravity worthy of the occasion, and becoming their rank.
In the center was a venerable-looking man, whose whole exterior bore the stamp of long-tried military habits. It was Colonel Hall, who was the presiding justice of the court. His associates were officers selected from the troops that garrisoned the forts situated near Lake George.
Their demeanor was mild, but bore a grave reserve. Before these arbiters, Edgar Sherwood was ushered, under the custody of two armed men.
A profound and awful silence succeeded his entrance, while every eye was turned upon him. Then Colonel Hall arising, spoke in the deep tones of one used to wield authority:
“Let the prisoner advance.”
Edgar proceeded with a firm step into the center of the apartment. All was now anxiety and eager curiosity.
“Captain Sherwood, you are aware of the reason for this tribunal, are you not?”
“I am.”
“Perhaps it would be prudent,” said one of the judges, “to inform the prisoner, that he is not bound to answer any questions that will aid in his own condemnation.”