Mr. Royalton’s effort was evidently a disappointment to many. A powerful appeal in behalf of the prisoner had been looked for—a speech abounding in eloquence and flights of oratory. Numerous precedents had led to this expectation. It was evident, however, to a close observer, that Mr. Royalton’s course was not inspired by discouragement, or a consciousness of weakness; yet his face was absolutely unreadable, save that there was an expression in it that told of determination, stern purpose, and a cool confidence in his resources.
The verdict of the court was that Carlos be committed to appear before the grand jury.
It was now after seven o’clock in the evening and Carlos was to be taken to Hillsdale on the night train. It must be mentioned that Dalton was not the county seat, and that the stone jail at Hillsdale was a much more secure receptacle for prisoners than the small “lock-up” at Dalton. So, in accordance with the law, he was to be immediately placed in the county jail at Hillsdale.
His own feelings had undergone no particular change. He was cast down, more by a sense of disgrace than anything else. He felt no particular terror; the blind confidence of innocence led him to believe that he would eventually be acquitted.
When he was conducted from the justice’s office to the jail again, a noisy, disorderly crowd followed; and when, two hours later, he proceeded to the railroad depot, handcuffed to the officer, another throng was in attendance. At the depot it was larger than ever, so that the officer and his prisoner had some difficulty in making their way to the waiting-room.
Here another strange and unlooked for circumstance occurred. An unseen hand was thrust quickly into the side pocket of Carlos’ coat, and instantly withdrawn. Carlos felt by the weight that something had been left in the pocket.
This time he was on his guard. He manifested no surprise, but looked deliberately and searchingly around. His scrutiny failed to discover the perpetrator of the act.
And now the brief message promising aid came to his mind with startling suggestiveness. Was a plot in progress to effect his escape? With outward coolness and with inward burning impatience, he waited and watched.