“Really, Mr. Briggs you are very perverse,” said his wife, impatiently.
“Because I am not ready to believe Gilbert a thief before he is proved so.”
“After he has been proved so.”
“There would be no need of trials or juries if you were a judge, my dear,” said Mr. Briggs, smiling. “You would be for sentencing the unfortunate defendant as soon as the charge had been brought against him.”
“Cherish your delusion as to the boy’s innocence as much as you like, Mr. Briggs; but there is one thing which you will certainly concede.”
“What is that?”
“Gilbert Greyson must not be invited to Randolph’s party.”
“Why not?”
“A common thief—impossible!”
“But suppose he is wrongfully accused?”