“I’m not ashamed of what I said. I told Doctor Grimshaw, my lady, that I wanted to see you—downed.”
“Ah.”
The fact that she made no comment strengthened her case enormously in the eyes and ears of those who might still be counted loyal subjects. On the other hand, John’s handsome admission, his frank countenance, his soldierly deportment made a profound impression. Cecily, torn in two, exclaimed vehemently:
“It’s incredible! You, a brave man, a soldier of the King, actually wanted to down a woman!”
Lady Selina, with uplifted hand, imposed silence. Goodrich delivered his verdict:
“I am grieved—grieved. Where is the constable, George Ball?”
“Here, sir.”
Goodrich addressed him magisterially:
“If a constable has reasonable ground for suspecting that a felony has been committed, he can arrest the person so suspected without a warrant.”
Agatha interposed hotly: