"You have made a serious charge," interrupted Lincoln thoughtfully. "I agree with Miss Nancy, Stanton, that it is time you produce your evidence against her."
The Secretary wheeled on Baker. "Where is Captain Lloyd?"
Lincoln, who was covertly studying Nancy, saw her move ever so slightly and her eyes dilate.
"I sent word to him that I was bringing Miss Newton to see you, instead of taking her to the provost marshal, and to join us here. I think this is he coming now," as the sound of hurrying footsteps sounded outside in the corridor. Baker stepped to the door, and pulled it open. "Come in, Lloyd."
But the man who entered was not Lloyd. He breathed heavily, as if spent with running, and, despite the cold winter night, beads of perspiration trickled down his face.
"Symonds!" exclaimed Baker. "Did you go for Captain Lloyd, as I ordered?"
Symonds nodded, gazing past Baker with frightened eyes at Nancy.
"Then, why didn't he return here with you?"
"Because"—Symonds took a long breath—"because—he's dead!"