"Yes," replies Cora, casting a malignant glance from one to the other of the accused men.
"Very good. Now we will pass on four or more years. You were in some little trouble last June, Mrs. Arthur. Explain how you came to Bellair."
"How?"
"Yes, for what purpose. And at whose instigation."
Cora hesitated, and Davlin moved uneasily.
"Don't think that you will damage your cause by making a full statement," suggested Miss Payne, meaningly. "Answer my questions, please."
Again Cora glances at Davlin. Then turning toward Madeline she assumes an air of defiant recklessness, and answers the questions promptly. "I came at Lucian Davlin's suggestion, and because he had induced me to think that I could easily become—what I am."
"And that is—"
"Mrs. Arthur, of Oakley!" with a mocking laugh.
The old man in the chair utters a loud groan, but no one heeds him. All eyes are fixed upon Madeline and Cora.