There is one among them who could explain the first—though ignorant of the last. The accused could do this; and will, when called upon to continue his confession.
Under the direction of the judge, and by the advice of his counsel, he is for the time preserving silence.
After a while the pursuers return; not all together, but in straggling squads—as they have despairingly abandoned the pursuit.
All bring back the same story. None of them has been near enough to the Headless rider to add one iota to what is already known of him. His entity remains mythical as ever!
It is soon discovered that two who started in the chase have not reappeared. They are the old hunter and the ex-captain of volunteers. The latter has been last seen heading the field, the former following not far behind him.
No one saw either of them afterward. Are they still continuing on? Perhaps they may have been successful?
All eyes turn towards the prairie, and scan it with inquiring glances. There is an expectation that the missing men may be seen on their way back—with a hope that the Headless Horseman may be along with them.
An hour elapses, and there is no sign of them—either with or without the wished-for captive.
Is the trial to be further postponed?
The counsel for the prosecution urges its continuance; while he for the accused is equally desirous of its being delayed. The latter moves an adjournment till to-morrow; his plea the absence of an important witness in the person of Zeb Stump, who has not yet been examined.