“I am sure that your Worship will not be inclined to take away Mr. Gaunt’s liberty. I am aware that bail is very rarely granted in cases of murder, but this accusation is so frivolous that I am confident that you will see the justice of my application. I repeat that the sole motive of this prosecution is to silence my client,” Sir Richard said with some warmth.
“At this stage I will express no opinion upon the proceedings, except to remark that the alleged crime took place many years ago. Mr. Gaunt is a well-known man and it is natural to wonder why all these years have been allowed to pass without any steps having been taken. I shall grant bail—the prisoner giving security in one thousand pounds—and two other securities of a like amount.”
“I am obliged to your Worship,” Sir Richard said quietly.
Gaunt happened to turn round, and his eyes alighted upon the Baron de Croiseuil, who was talking excitedly to his solicitor. Mr. Ruggles once more jumped to his feet.
“Surely your Worship will hear me before giving such a decision? I repeat that the charge against the prisoner is the most serious known to the law, and that you will be forming a most dangerous precedent if you grant bail. I cannot impress upon your lordship too strongly my opinion that if the prisoner is allowed to go free, he will never dare to face the trial.”
“I have given my decision after due consideration. The prisoner will be admitted to bail upon the terms I have stated,” the magistrate answered drily.
Gaunt was led from the court while the formalities were being completed, and it was some little time before the papers were signed. At last it was all finished, and he left the police station to find Edward Drake awaiting him with the motor-car.
Newspaper lads were running along the street shouting their wares:
“Serious charge against John Gaunt. Proceedings at Bow Street,” and a grim smile came to the millionaire’s face.
“What did Lady Mildred say to you?” he asked of Drake with great anxiety.