Mor. Silence! If she is not dead, it was not the fault of the intended murderer. He meant to kill her, and the intent is sufficient for which to carry out the penalty!
Dol. [R. C.] Correct, Colonel! But that man is not the one who attempted the murder. I swear that Reginald Maitland left the house fifteen minutes before the shot was fired. I was watching one whom I know to be the murderer, prowling around the house; but looking after Maitland’s departure, I lost sight of the other chap. Some time after I heard the shot and rushed into the house and into the arms of the attempted assassin, who was trying to escape. I struggled to overpower him, but he was too much for me. [Rubs his side and grimaces.] He got away. I pursued, but he got off in the darkness. In my eagerness to catch him, I fell into the hands of the rebels.
Mor. And how did you get away from the rebels?
Dol. This morning, by indomitable bravery and courage, I fought my way out of their lines and hastened back here to camp.
Mor. Who is the man that attempted the deed?
Dol. The room was dark; the scoundrel had put out the light; I could not recognize him!
Ralph. [Aside.] Safe! safe!
Mor. How do you know, then, that it was not Maitland?
Dol. In the struggle, the villain’s ring slipped into my hand. Here it is, Colonel! [Morrell takes and examines it.] Later I also found this shoulder strap hanging to one of my buttons. [Morrell hands ring to Ralph.] Colonel, do privates wear these things?
Ralph. Colonel, here are some letters engraved on the seal—R. M. Reginald Maitland!