"Major Goddard," began the judge advocate, turning over the leaves of his book, "in your direct testimony you stated that when trying to find your way out of Captain Lloyd's bedroom you tripped over a foot-stool. Mrs. Lane has just testified that there was not such a thing in the room. Symonds has also testified that not one article of furniture that was in the room was overturned or apparently disturbed in any way. Now, sir, kindly inform this court what you really did trip over, and remember," he sternly admonished, "that you are under oath to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth."
Goddard grew white to the lips, and fingered his sword hilt nervously. Getting no answer to his question, the judge advocate repeated it. Still no reply.
"I will alter my question." The judge advocate's accusing voice rang through the tense silence. "Did you not trip over a dog belonging to the accused? I demand an answer, sir. Yes or no?"
For one brief second Goddard gazed with white set face in the direction of the judge advocate; then dropped his face into his trembling hand as he murmured: "Yes."
CHAPTER XXIV
A STARTLING DISCOVERY
Mrs. Warren, who had spent an anxious evening by herself, heard the rattle of her husband's latch key, and hurried out to the front door to meet him.
"Any new developments, dear?" she asked, as he stooped and kissed her.
Warren hung up his overcoat and hat before answering. "Let us go into the study," he suggested, and waited until they were closeted in the room before he spoke again. "Goddard has been placed under close arrest."