“‘She went to meet Mr. Bowles at the summer-house and then accompanied him to his apartments.’
“‘What was Mrs. Ragland’s maiden name?’
“‘Victoria Totten.’
“The loud report of half a dozen pistol shots in rapid succession now came ringing through the court-room, causing a stampede among the spectators, who made a rush for the door.
“‘Go quick, Eddie!’ said Lottie, as she seized my arm, while her whole body trembled. ‘Run quick—it is Bowles and Harry fighting.’
“Policemen came running in from all directions, shouting:
“‘Stop the thief! Catch the murderer! Shoot the villain! Where is he?’
“‘What has happened, Mr. Quillet?’ demanded Flipout, who had rubbed his nose until it was as red as fire.
“‘Ben Bowles made an attempt to assassinate Harry Wallingford; but I am happy to inform your Honor that no serious harm has been done, though the scoundrel, Bowles, has succeeded in effecting his escape. He met Wallingford at the door, as he went out, and slapped him on the mouth; then both parties began to shoot at each other, and Wallingford received a slight flesh wound in the left arm, and Bowles fled. He knocked a man down in the streets, and took the horse that the man was holding, mounted and went north at full speed.’
“‘If your Honor please,’ said the prosecuting officer, ‘I think it is my duty (to perform which will afford me great pleasure) to enter a nolle prosequi in this case, being convinced that this young lady is innocent. She has suffered too much already, and I am unwilling to allow her to spend another night in prison.’