She rose, but seemed to ask herself how to begin; and her pallor and her hesitation, while they excited some little sympathy, confirmed the unfavorable impression. She fixed her eyes upon the witness, as if to discover where she was most vulnerable. Mrs. Ryder returned her gaze calmly. The court was hushed; for it was evident a duel was coming between two women of no common ability.
The opening rather disappointed expectation. Mrs. Gaunt seemed, by her manner, desirous to propitiate the witness.
Prisoner (very civilly). You say you brought Thomas Leicester to my bedroom on that terrible night?
Ryder (civilly). Yes, madam.
Prisoner. And you say he stayed there half an hour?
Ryder. Yes, madam; he did.
Prisoner. May I inquire how you know he stayed just half an hour?
Ryder. My watch told me that, madam. I brought him to you at a quarter past eleven; and you did not ring for me till a quarter to twelve.
Prisoner. And when I did ring for you, what then?
Ryder. I came and took the man away, by your orders.