"Then are we to understand, Mr. Longsett"--the foreman spoke with almost ominous suavity--"that you have arrived at a point at which you are impervious to argument?"
"I say not guilty."
"Even though it may be demonstrated beyond a shadow of a doubt that the prisoner is guilty?"
"It's no good talking to me, Mr. Grice. I say not guilty."
The foreman, stretching out his hands in front of him, looked round the table with an air which was eloquent with deprecation. Old Parkes banged his fist upon the board.
"And I say guilty, and I hope they'll give him seven years--the thieving varmint!"
"Arrived at a state of sudden conviction--eh, George?"
This was Mr. Timmins, who was middle-aged and jaunty.
"Some people are easily convinced," growled Mr. Longsett.
"You're not one of that sort, are you, Jacob?"