"You know the child—Wren Salvey?" asked the judge.
"Yes. I have been in close attendance upon her for some weeks," replied Cecilia.
"And you can state that she is improved in health since leaving her mother's house?"
"Very much improved. If she had not lost a very dear treasure, over which she grieves, I believe she would be almost well soon."
Cecilia looked very young and very pretty. She spoke with the conviction of candor that counts so much to honest minds, and judge Cowles encouraged her with a most pleasant manner. The newspaper men were scribbling notes rapidly. Rob Roland was looking steadily at the chandelier at the risk of injury to his neck—so awkward was his position.
"You are the young lady who removed the child?" questioned the magistrate.
"Yes," replied Cecilia.
"And her accomplice?" shouted Rob Roland questioningly.
"Leave the room!" ordered the judge. "I think there is a different case behind this than the one we are hearing. I shall inquire into it, and, for the good of the child and her wronged mother, I shall order a thorough investigation. What motive have those who brought up this alleged case? There is absolutely no grounds for this action. The case is dismissed."
So suddenly did the relief come to Cecilia that she almost collapsed. She looked at Mrs. Salvey, who was pressing her handkerchief to her eyes.