“Why this squeamishness, my young squire of dames? Was it not Angèle Saumarez?”
Martin turned to the Coroner.
“Must I reply, sir?”
“Yes.... I fail still to see the drift of the cross-examination, Mr. Stockwell.”
“It will become apparent quickly. Yes, or no, Bolland?”
“Yes; it was.”
“Was she committed to your care by her mother?”
“No. She came out to see the fair. I promised to look after her.”
“Were you better fitted to protect this child than the two sons of Mr. Beckett-Smythe?”
“I thought so.”