The Judge stood up and addressed Darcy. His voice was trembling. He was very unjudgelike in his manner.
“My boy, you are free from the charge and the court dismisses the case.” He was smiling and there was something like a mist in his eyes.
Darcy inclined his head slightly.
“Your Honor, I thank you. I am glad to be exonerated from a crime that I did not commit; but I want to ask your permission now to confess to one that I did. I want to take the penalty, whatever it is, and be cleared in the eyes of the law forever.”
The court-room grew suddenly hushed. People who had risen and begun to adjust wraps and pick up their gloves sat down again. All ears were strained to hear every word.
“You have my permission,” said the Judge looking instantly grave and anxious. “Is the attorney here to take down the confession? Mr. Robinson—”
There was a little stir in the room while the attorney came forward, and then Darcy went on:
“For several months prior to the time last spring when I left town I had been in the bootlegging business.”
“Oh!—Ah!” were whispered here and there with nods of previous conviction from people who had been half disappointed to have the trial turn out so well.
“I gave it up because I had come to feel that it was wrong. I confess it now because I want to pay the penalty of what I have done. Judge, I will be glad if you will put this through as soon as possible. I am ready to take what is coming to me.”