Walker was now permitted to resume his upright position, and he stood trembling with fear and rage, as Nettleton went on to relate his first suspicions of Walker, his search for the body of Captain Hayward, his finding the impression of the footprints standing side by side in the mud, at the edge of the stream, with the marks of two hearts in the sole of each boot; and then the finding of the handkerchief in the water, which Nettleton then produced.
The officer took the white linen witness, examining it closely, and then said:
“Here is the name of ‘Walker,’ in the corner. William, did you find this near the place where the murder was committed?”
“Right by the spot where them two boots stood!” replied Nettleton, pointing to Walker’s feet.
“I can explain this,” exclaimed Walker. “I went to the river that day to wash, and I stood upon the bank to do so. I presume I left the impression of my boots there at that time. If I did not, was I not also present in the morning to examine the spot where the murder had been committed? And is it a wonder that the impression of my boots should be left behind?”
“That is certainly true,” replied the General. “But of the handkerchief?”
“It fell from my hands as I was washing, and I did not take the trouble to recover it.”
“It is very probable!” replied the General.
“So you perceive,” replied Walker, as he appeared to gain courage, “your trumped up evidence has fallen to the ground! I did not expect a combination of both officers and men against me, but I find it so. And they wish to see me suffer for the bloody deed done by that coward. The only reason I can assign for this persecution is, that he is in favor with the ladies, and you, sycophants that you are, hope, through him, to gain favor with his fair companions. No doubt some bargain to that effect already has been effected!”
Captain Walker had by this time become eloquent, and defiant. Nettleton, with his too eager perceptions, had failed to foresee the possible fallacy of his proofs, for hope and prejudice together had prevented any calm examination of his evidence. With a sorrowful and troubled look, he turned away. This gave Walker greater confidence, and, in a loud but hoarse voice he cried: