The face of the convict wore an expression of amazement.
Counsel smiled again.
"I presume you know that the effect of the law officers of the Crown, believing the story that you tell us now is that, if they do so, the man whom you call your brother will be put into possession of the estate of which your late father died seized?"
"He is entitled to it."
Counsel turned to the jury with a smile.
"It is always necessary to find some standard by which to judge of human actions. The witness quarreled with the defendant four days ago, and this is his revenge. But I appeal to the court. Is this story credible? Is it not a palpable imposture?"
The judge again interposed.
"Men do not risk so much for a lie. The witness knows that when the court rises the sheriff may take him into custody."
At this counsel rose again and asked the bench not to play into the hands of the witness by apprehending him.
"Let the convict be examined," said the judge.