"I have a strong hope that we may clear Awdrey," he said. "The case is a clear one of manslaughter which took place in self-defence. Mrs. Vincent's deposition is most important, for it not only shows that Awdrey committed the unfortunate deed under the strongest provocation, but explains exactly why Frere should have had such animosity to the Squire. Now, Mrs. Vincent, you have rendered a very valuable service, and as you are ill we cannot expect you to do anything further to-night."
Here Rumsey looked full at Margaret.
"I think this young woman far too unwell to leave the house," he said—"can you have a room prepared for her here?"
"Certainly," said Margaret; she went up to Hetty and laid one of her hands on her shoulder.
"Before Hetty leaves the room, there is something to be said on her own account," said the Squire.
He then related in a few words the tragedy which had taken place at the Gable Farm. While he was speaking, Hetty suddenly staggered to her feet and faced them.
"If what I have told to-night will really save you, Squire, then nothing else matters," she said; "I'm not afeared now, for ef I 'ave saved you at last, nothing matters,"—her face grew ghastly white, she tumbled in a heap to the floor.
The doctor, Margaret, and the Squire rushed to her assistance, but when they raised her up she was dead.
"Heart disease," said Rumsey, afterward, "accelerated by shock."