“‘If I ever ordered such a job, I do not now remember it.’
“‘Mrs. Ragland, don’t you know that your maiden name was Victoria Totten, and that you lived in New Orleans as the reputed wife of Benjamin Bowles?’
“‘No, I do not know any such thing! It is my opinion that no lady would ask a witness any such insulting question; but I suppose you are anxious to play smart.’
“A sweet smile played for a moment over Lottie’s beautiful face, and then resuming her usual calm, composed demeanor, she proceeded with the examination, without evincing any signs of annoyance at the ill-natured remarks.
“‘Mrs. Ragland, were you ever acquainted with a widow lady residing a few miles east of the city of Vicksburg, Mississippi?’
“‘Please examine this letter, and tell the jury whether you ever saw it before or not.’
“The letter which Lottie handed to the witness was the one that Mr. Dabbs said he had found in the pocket of Miss Bramlett’s silk dress, in which the loan of five hundred dollars was mentioned, and the same that was signed with the letter ‘B.’ and directed to ‘Dear V.’ As Mrs. Ragland gazed at the mysterious letter, her hands trembled violently, while a deathly pallor spread over her face.
“‘This is the first time I ever laid my eyes on this letter. I suppose it was intended for Miss Bramlett, as I see that it was directed to her, and I understand that it was found in her dress pocket.’
“‘Do you recognize the handwriting?’