“No. Overcome by sudden fear I left the place, lest I should be suspected of committing the murder.” This statement had a great effect upon the spectators, and it was some moments before quiet was sufficiently restored for the interrogatory to proceed. “Did you give information to the police?”
“No. I left for Paris at ten the same morning.”
“Can you say positively that it was not the prisoner who committed the murder?”
“Yes; I am certain it was not,” he replied, drawing a long breath.
I was still convinced he was the murderer. He might, I thought, be endeavouring to shield himself by giving evidence against some imaginary person. “Have you any idea who committed the deed?”
“I have—I believe—”
“Stop! Whatever information you can give in a serious charge like this must be given to the police,” exclaimed the judge, interrupting.
“Shall I give the police the name of the person I suspect?” asked the Russian.
“Yes; at the conclusion of your examination.” Counsel for the prosecution rose and took a deliberate view of the witness, saying: “Tell me, Mr Seroff, what prompted you to act in the extraordinary manner you did on discovering the crime?”
“I had no desire to be suspected.”