His and every one else's attention were, however, speedily taken up by the conduct of Mrs. Lovett. The moment comparative order was restored in the crowded court, so that what she said could be distinctly and clearly heard, she spoke—
"I am willing to turn king's evidence upon this occasion, and to declare all I know of Todd's nefarious transactions. I am quite willing to tell all—I don't perhaps know the full extent of Todd's guilt, but I repeat I will turn king's evidence, and tell all I do know."
A gentleman, plainly dressed in black, rose new, and in a calm, assured voice, said—
"Upon the part of the crown I reject the offer of the female prisoner. Anything she may say will be used as evidence against her, if it bear that construction."
"Reject?" cried Mrs. Lovett. "And pray, sir, who are you that you dare reject such a proposition for furthering the ends of justice?"
"That, madam, is the Attorney-General," said an officer.
"Oh," said Mrs. Lovett, "and am I to understand that I am accused of any participation in Todd's crimes?"
"You will find by the evidence that will be adduced against you of what you are accused," said the magistrate. "You, I believe, Sir Richard Blunt, give these people in charge?"
"Yes," said Sir Richard rising. "I charge them with, in the first place, the wilful murder of Charles James Thornhill. If your worship should think fit, from the evidence that will be brought forward, to commit them upon that charge, I shall not at present trouble you with any others, although I am fully prepared with several."
"What is the meaning of all this?" cried Mrs. Lovett. "I will be heard."