"Mr. Hendrix, will you look at this picture and tell me if you recognize the person it represents?"
Hendrix took the bromide print from the lawyer's hand, and saw—the entrance of the Whitonville Bank; a man was just issuing from the door; one hand was on the knob in the act of closing the door, while the other hand was holding his hat firmly on his head to prevent its being blown away; the man's face was clearly distinguishable; it was himself!
THE EFFECT UPON THE GUILTY MAN WAS PITIFUL.
The effect upon the guilty man was pitiful. He shook with fear; his head dropped upon his breast, and the picture fell from his nerveless grasp to the floor.
The lawyer quickly handed the print to the jury, and then turning to the judge, said: "Your honor, our side of the case has been presented. We have finished."
The jury promptly acquitted Frank, who was surrounded by friends eager to congratulate him on his wonderful escape.
Tom was the hero of the hour, and received compliments enough to turn the head of any fellow less modest and unassuming.
Hendrix's story is quickly told. Speculation, losses, peculation in small sums to make good the losses, and finally robbery to cover the petty thievings. He made a full confession—told how he put the bonds in Frank's drawer to avert suspicion from himself, using a duplicate key to open the drawer. He is now undergoing a long term of imprisonment in Auburn.
Frank Wentworth is the new cashier of the Whitonville Bank, and enjoys the friendship and regard of the entire community.