“It does.�
“Then, your Honor, I object!� shouted the indignant Coad.
Judge Hollis turned to speak.
“The objection is sustained,� said the court.
The old lawyer for the defense turned purple again, and flashed a furious glance at Dr. Cheyney. The doctor smiled, his face puckering. The tense excitement and curiosity in the room found utterance in a sigh of disappointment. Judge Hollis slammed his papers on his desk and turned the witness over to the prosecution. Colonel Coad did not press the examination, and the old doctor went calmly back to his seat with his secret untold.
Hollis turned to the court. “Your Honor, I waive the right to sum up, and rest the case for the defense.�
An hour later Colonel Coad had closed for the prosecution and Judge Ladd charged the jury.
There had been no recess, and the crowded room was packed to suffocation. Everywhere were faces, white, haggard, intent with excitement, and the labored breathing of men who hung upon a word. A thunderstorm was coming on, and now and then a vivid flash flooded the room with light. At half-past eight Judge Ladd gave the case to the jury. The foreman rose and stated that the jury had reached a verdict without leaving the box.
There was an intense moment, and then Judge Ladd spoke slowly.
“Have you agreed upon a verdict?�