"Be it so," replied the knight, who saw the force of this reasoning. "Continue the proceedings."
"You say that the miniature was abstracted from Lady Trafford's jewel-box," said Jonathan, in a loud voice. "Who took it thence?"
"Thames Darrell; the boy at your side."
"Jack!" cried Thames, in indignant surprise.
But Sheppard took no notice of the exclamation.
A loud buzz of curiosity circulated among the domestics; some of whom—especially the females—leaned forward to obtain a peep at the culprit.
"Si—lence!" vociferated Charcam, laying great emphasis on the last syllable.
"Were you present at the time of the robbery?" pursued Jonathan.
"I was," answered Sheppard.
"And will swear to it?"