“‘Pshaw! child, you don’t know what you are talking about!’ growled the iron lawyer.
“‘Yes I do, papa, let them walk into the trap—I’ll spring the trigger directly.’
“‘If the court please,’ said Mr. Quillet, ‘we think the evidence is competent in all respects. We have proved by this witness that the defendant was planning the murder a week before it was perpetrated.’
“‘We withdraw the objections,’ said Mr. Rockland, ‘you may go on with the evidence.’
“‘We are through with the witness,’ observed Mr. Quillet, ‘and she may retire, unless you wish to cross-examine her.’
“‘Stand aside,’ growled Mr. Rockland, as he waved his hand slowly.
“‘No, no, papa,’ said Lottie, ‘don’t let her go yet—I have some questions to ask her.’
“‘Hold on a moment, if you please, Miss Tadpoddle,’ exclaimed Mr. Rockland; ‘if your Honor will permit Miss Wallingford to ask the witness a few questions, we will esteem it a favor. She has been with the defendant most of the time, and is very familiar with the points of the case.’
“‘Certainly, certainly!’ said the judge, ‘let Miss Wallingford ask as many questions as she pleases.’
“A great sensation was caused among the spectators at this new turn of things, and a scramble for front seat ensued. The crowd swayed back and forth, while all the lawyers moved close to Lottie, and gazed at her with open mouths.