His sudden manner of agonized affection, and words that came like a cry from the heart, brought a hush of trembling expectation. Bertha gazed intently at her sister, unconscious of the tears of excitement that were running over her own eyes. Durgan, who had never thought to see Alden so moved, felt the utmost wonder. But the fragile, faded woman, to whom the passionate question had been addressed, faced her questioner with no other change in the calm front she bore than an added degree of sadness.
"Hermione," cried Alden again, "why did you conceal this man's guilt from me at the time, and why do you still wish to conceal it?"
"Herbert," she replied very gently, "you have no evidence of his guilt."
"I have," he replied.
Durgan felt himself start nervously. Such a statement from this keen legal mind was like a declaration of proof.
The effect of the words upon Miss Hermione was a visible shudder which ran through her frame.
"Evidence?" she said, as if still doubting; but terror was written on her face.
"Two days ago I went to Hilyard at the summons of the doctor and constable. The colored prisoner, called Adolphus Courthope, was supposed to be dying, and desired to see me. When I went, he asked me to take down a confession and a statement, parts of which supplied links in the story I have told you. The doctor was witness to the interview. Courthope swore that Beardsley was the criminal."
Miss Claxton looked at him steadily. "What reason have you to assume that what he said is true?"