“‘You must not set those two cases down as a sample of what we do all the time, because the court was forced by the law in those cases to render decisions the effect of which was to enable guilty parties to escape.’
“Then Judge Flipout again addressed Miss Bramlett, remaining by her side a moment.
“‘Open court, Mr. Sheriff,’ he said as he looked at his watch. ‘I wish you a speedy delivery, Miss Bramlett, as much for Miss Wallingford’s sake as for your own. You have been quite fortunate in securing the friendly services of such an astute attorney.’
“Then his Honor resumed his seat and listened to the reading of the minutes, while the lawyers began to whisper to each other, and occasionally point toward Lottie and Viola. I was close enough to hear a whispered conversation carried on by Hogjaw and Quillet in regard to the two charming girls.
“‘Which one is the prisoner?’ inquired Hogjaw, as he started toward the ladies.
“‘The one sitting nearest this way,’ replied Quillet.
“‘There are no evidences of guilt in that face, certain. By Jupiter, she is pretty!’
“‘Yes, but I do not think her as beautiful as Miss Wallingford. I have never laid my eyes on such a model of perfection; there is an indescribable charm about the expression of her features that eclipses anything I ever beheld. Just look at that pretty golden hair—did you ever see anything like it? Look at those large blue eyes, and that saucy dimpled chin, the straight, symmetrical form, the exquisite neck, the rosy cheeks!’
“‘Stop, Quillet, I cry enough! you are done for, that is plain; that girl has captured you beyond question.’
“‘I would give a California gold mine if I could capture such a woman for a wife!’