“But what’s wrong with that theory?” the juror insisted.
Sampson said, “Everything. However, I–I have completed my argument. You have evidence that — that Cullens was killed with the gun found in Mrs. Breel’s handbag. Other evidence introduced merely confuses the issues. I trust you ladies and gentlemen won’t be misled. I thank you.” He walked back to his seat at the counsel table.
Mrs. Breel tried anxiously to catch Mason’s eyes, but the lawyer kept his own gaze averted. Judge Barnes instructed the jurors as to the law, swore the bailiff to conduct them to a safe place for their deliberations. And then, as the jurors left the Court, announced that Court would take a recess pending a receipt of the verdict.
Sarah Breel beckoned Perry Mason over to her. “You should never have done that,” she said.
“What?” Mason asked.
“Dragged Virginia into it.”
Mason grinned and said, “On the contrary, I dragged her out of it. You heard Sampson say it was absurd to think she could have murdered Cullens.”
“Where is she? I want to see her.”
Mason said, “My secretary took her for a ride in the country. I thought some fresh air would do her some good. I persuaded her that it would be to her advantage not to be present at the conclusion of the case.”
Sarah Breel sighed. “Well, while we’re waiting for the jury to bring in its verdict, since you’ve admitted that was my bag, suppose you see if I can have the knitting out of it. I might just as well keep working on that sweater for Ginny while I’m waiting to see what the jury does.”