 Chapter 12 of the Trial. This is a LibriVox recording. All LibriVox recordings are in the public domain. For more information or to volunteer, please visit LibriVox.org. Recording by Jennifer Painter. The Trial by Charlotte Mary Yong. Chapter 12. Let us meet and question this most bloody piece of work to know it farther. If you please sir, Master Hardy from the Vintry Mill wants to see you. Said a voice at Doctor May's door early in the morning, and the doctor completed his dressing in haste muttering to himself explanations of concern that the old man's malady should have returned. On entering the study, Hardy's appearance, whiter than even the most proverbial view of his trade, his agitation of feature, confused eye, and trembling lip, inspired fears that the case was more alarming than had the apprehended. But to cheer him, the doctor began, Brighten about yourself, Master Hardy. You come out without breakfast, and that's enough to put any man out of heart. No sir, said the old man. It is nothing about myself. I wish it were no worse. But I've not got the heart to go to tell the poor young gentleman and I thought, What? What has happened to the boy? exclaimed Doctor May sharply, standing as if ready to receive the rifle shot, which he already believed had destroyed Leonard. That's what we can't say sir, returned Hardy, but he's gone. No one knows where. And sir, my poor master was found at five o'clock this morning in his chair in his sitting room, stone dead from a blow on the head. Mind what you are saying? shouted the doctor passionately. You old scoundrel, you don't mean to tell me that you are accusing the lad? I accuse nobody sir, said the old man standing his ground and speaking steadily but respectfully. I wouldn't say nothing to bring anyone into trouble if I could help it and I came to ask you what was to be done. Yes, yes, I beg your pardon, Hardy. But it sounded enough to over set one. Your poor master murdered you say? Hardy nodded ascent. A young ward missing? Why? The burglars must have hurt the poor fellow in defending his uncle. Have you searched the place? I never thought of that sir, said Hardy, his countenance much relieved. It would be more like such a young gentleman as Mr Ward. Then we'll get over to the mill as fast as we can and see what can be done. Said Dr May, snatching up his hat and gloves. You come and walk with me to Bankside and tell me by the way about this terrible business. Good heavens, they'll have thrown the boy into the river. And calling out that his carriage should follow to Bankside, the doctor dashed upstairs and knocked at Ethel's door. My dear, he said, there has been a robbery or something at the Vintry Mill. I must go and see Henry Ward about it. Poor old axe worthy is murdered and I'm terribly afraid Leonard has met with some foul play. Your Mary had better go and see about Avey presently, but don't believe a word of anything till you see me again. And shutting the door, while Ethel felt as if the room were reeling round with her, Dr May was in a few seconds more, pasting along by Hardy's side, extracting from him the little he had to tell. The old man had been unlocking the door of the mill at five o'clock when he was summoned by live shrieks from the window of Mr Axworthy's sitting room and found that the little maid had been appalled by the sight of her master, sunk forward from his gouty chair upon the table, his hair covered with blood. Hardy had been the first to touch him and to perceive that he had long been dead. The housekeeper, the only other servant who slept in the house, had rushed in half dressed, but neither nephew appeared. Young Axworthy had gone the previous day to the county races, leaving the time of his return doubtful, and Leonard Ward did not answer when called. It was then found that his room was empty, his bed untouched, and the passage window outside his door left open. The terrified servants held confused consultation, and while the broom had hurried off to give the alarm at Whitford, and ride on in search of Sam Axworthy, Hardy had taken another horse and started to inform Henry Ward, but his heart failing him, he had come to beg the doctor to break the intelligence to the family. Doctor May had few doubts that the robbers must have entered by the passage window, and meeting resistance from Leonard must have dragged him out and perhaps thrown him from it, then having gone on to their murderous work in the old man's sitting room. In that great rambling house where the maids slept off our off, and the rats held nightly gambles, strange noises were not likely to be observed, and the thought of Leonard lying stunned and insensible on the grass made the doctor's pace almost a run as if he were hastening to the rescue. When Mr Ward sent down word that he was not up, Doctor May replied that he must see him in bed and followed upon the very heels of the messenger, encountering no amiable face, for Henry had armed himself for defence against any possible approaches for his treatment of any patient. Even when Doctor May began, Henry, my poor fellow, I have frightful news for you. His mouth was opening to reply, I knew we should lose that case, lest the patient be who he might when the few simple words put to flight all petrol of jettleseed, and restored Henry Ward to what he had been when in his hour of sickness and affliction he had lent in full confidence on Doctor May's unfailing kindness. He was dressed by the time the broom was at the door, and would have hurried off without telling his sister of the alarm. But Doctor May, knowing that the town must soon be ringing with the news, was sending him to Avril's room when both rejoiced to see Mary enter the house, charging her to keep Avril quiet and believing nothing but what came from themselves. They thrust on her the terrible commission and hastened away, dwelling on the hope that every moment might be important. Old Hardy had already mounted his cart horse, and for him farm roads so shortened the distance that he received them at the entrance of the courtyard, which was crowded with excited gazers and important policemen. Found him was the instantaneous question of both, but Hardy shook his head so sadly that the Doctor hastily exclaimed, What then? Sir, said Hardy very low and with a deprecating look, he did go up by the mail train to London last night, got in at Bloor station at 12.15. They have telegraphed up, sir. Ah, lay my life, it is all a mistake, said Doctor May grasping Henry's arm as if to give him support and looking him in the face as though resolved that neither should be cast down. That's not all, sir, added Hardy, still addressing himself to the elder gentleman. There's his rifle, sir. Why? He wasn't shot? Sharply cried Doctor May. You told me so yourself. No, sir, but you'll see for yourself presently there's the blood and grey hairs on the stalk, sir. Never fear, Henry, we shall see. Said Doctor May pressing on and adding as soon as they were out of hearing. Nothing those folks, even the best of them, like so well as laying on horrors thick enough. A policeman stood at the house door to keep off idlers, but Doctor May's character and profession, as well as his municipal rank, caused way to be instantly made for them. They found a superintendent within, and he had once began, most unfortunate business, Mr May, very mysterious. Then, as a sign from the Doctor made him aware of Henry Ward's near concern, he added, Shall I inform young Mr Axeworthy that you are here? Is he come? Yes, sir. He had only slept at the three goblets, not half a mile across the fields, you know, Mr Mayer, came home too late to disturb the house here, slept there, and was on the spot at the first intelligence. For I was myself, added the superintendent a little jealously. Where is he? In his room, sir. He was extremely overcome and retired to his room as soon as the necessary steps had been taken. Would you wish to see the room, sir? We are keeping it locked till the inquest takes place, but Henry asked, When? His first word since his arrival, and almost inarticulate. He was answered that it would probably be at two that afternoon. The Whitford Coroner had intimated that he was ready, and the downtrain would be in by one. A telegram had just arrived, reporting that the electric message had anticipated the mail train, and that young Mr Ward would be brought down in time. Never mind, never heed, Henry, persisted Dr May, pressing the young man's arm as they proceeded to the door of the sitting room. He must be intensely shocked, but he will explain the whole. Nay, I've no doubt we shall clear him. His rifle indeed. I could swear to his rifle anywhere. The superintendent had by this time opened the door of the sitting room, communicating on one side with the office, on the other with the old man's bedroom. Except that the body had been carried to the bed in the inner chamber, all remained as it had been found. There were no signs of robbery, not even of a struggle. The cushions of the easy chair still bore the impress of the sitter's weight. The footstool was hardly pushed aside. The massive library table was undisturbed. The silver spoons and sugar tongs beside the tumbler and plate on the supper tray. The yellow light of the lamp still burned. Not a paper was ruffled, not a drawer pulled out. Only a rifle stood leaning against the window shutter, and towards it both friend and brother went at once, hoping and trusting that it would be a stranger to their eyes. Alas, alas, only two familiar were the rich brown mottlings of the stock, the steel mountings, the eagle crest, and twisted H-E cipher. And in sickness of heart, the doctor could not hide from himself the dark clot of gore and the few white hairs adhering to the wood and answering to the stain that died the leather of the desk. Henry could not repress an agonized groan and averted his face, but his companion, undaunted, met the superintendent's eye and query. You know it, sir? I do. It was my son-in-law's present to him. I wonder where he kept it for the ruffians to get hold of it. The superintendent remained civil and impassive, and no one spoke to break the deathly hush of the silent room, filled with the appliances of ordinary business life, but tainted with the awful unexplained mark that there had been the foot of the Shedder of Blood in silence and at unawares. The man in authority at length continued his prettiest exhibition. Doctor Rankin of Whitford had arrived on the first alarm, but would not the gentleman see the body? And he led them on. Doctor May's eyes on the alert to seize on anything exculpatory, but detecting nothing, seeing only the unwieldy, helpless form and aged feeble countenance of the deceased and receiving fresh impressions of the brutality and cowardice of the hand that could have struck the blow. He looked, examined, defined the injury and explained that it must have caused instant death, thus hoping to divert attention from his pale, horror-stricken companion, whose only two apparent despondency almost provoked him. At the doctor's request, they were taken up the staircase into the corridor and shown the window, which had been found nearly closed but not fastened, as though it had been partially shut down from the outside. The Shedder bow almost brushed the glass and the slope of turf came so high up the wall that an active youth could easily swing himself down to it. And the superintendent significantly remarked that the punt was on the farther side of the stream, whereas the evening before it had been on the nearer. Dr May leant out over the window sill, still in the lingering hope of seeing. He knew not what, but he only became oppressed by the bright, still summer beauty of the trees and grass and sparkling water, insensible of the horror that brooded over all. He drew back his head, and as the door hard by was open, Leonard's little dog sprang from her basket kennel, wagging her tail in hopes of her master, but in her disappointment, greeting one of him dogs always hailed as a friend. Poor little doggy, good little man, if only you could tell us. And the creature fondly responded to his gentle hand, though keeping aloof from Henry, in mindfulness of past passages between them, while Henry could evidently not bear to look at her. They gazed round the room, but it conveyed no elucidation of the mystery. There were Leonard's books in their range on the drawers, his fossils in the cupboard, his mother's photograph on his mantelpiece, his sister's drawings on the wall. His gray uniform lay on the bed as if recently taken off. His ordinary office coat was folded on a chair, and he seemed to have dressed and gone in his best clothes. While anxiously seeking some note of explanation, they heard a step, and Sam exworthy entered, speaking fast and low in apology for not having sooner appeared. But he had been thoroughly upset, as indeed he looked, his whole appearance betraying the disorder of the evening's dissipation, followed by the morning's shock. Most unfortunate, he said, that he had not returned earlier. His friend, Black, Tom Black, of Edsel Green, had driven him home in his dog cart, set him down at the turn to cross the fields, moon as light as day, no notion of the lateness till he got inside of the great clock and saw it was half past twelve. So knowing the early habits of the place, he had thought it best to turn back and get a bed at the three goglets. If he had only come home, he might have prevented mischief. There ensued a few commonplace words on the old man's infirm state, yet his independent habits and reluctance to let any servant assist him or even sleep near him. Sam spoke as if in a dream and was evidently so unwell that Dr May thought it charitable to follow the dictates of his own disgust at breaking bread in that house of horrors and refused offers of breakfast. He said he must go home, but would return for the inquest and asked whether Henry would remain to meet his brother. No, no thank you, said Henry huskily, as with the driest of throats and a perceptible shudder he turned to go away. The doctor pausing to caress little Mab and say, I had better take home this poor little thing, she may come to harm here and may be a comfort to the sister. No objection came from Sam, but Mab herself ran back to her house and even snarled at the attempt to detach her from it. You are a faithful little beast, he said, and your master will soon be here to settle straight, so I will leave you for the present. And therewith he signed farewell and breathed more freely as he gained the outer air. I'll tell you what Henry, he said, as they drove out of the courtyard, will bring out Gramshaw to watch the case. He will see through this horrible mystery and throw the suspicion in the right quarter, whatever that may be, depend upon it. Henry had thrown himself back in the carriage with averted face and only answered by a groan. Come, don't be so downcast, said Doctor May. It is a frightful affair, no doubt, and Leonard has chosen a most unlucky moment for this escapade, but he will have a thorough warning against frolics. Frolics indeed, said Henry Bitterley. Well, I'll be bound, that's all he has attempted, and it has got him into a horrid scrape and ten to one, but the police have got the real ruckians in their hands by this time. I have no hope, said Henry. More shame for you not to feel a certain confidence that he who sees all will show the right. If, said Henry, breaking off with a sound and look of such intense misery as almost to stagger the Doctor himself by reminding him of Leonard's vial of temper and the cause Henry had to remember his promptness of hand. But that Ethel's pupil, Orbury's friend, the boy of ingenuous space, could under any provocation strike help this old age, or, having struck, could have scorned without calling aid, actuated by terror, not by pity or repentance, was more than Doctor May could believe, and after brief musing he broke out in indignant recitation. I should have thought so. I wish I still could believe so, sighed Henry. But there they lapsed into silence, till as they came near the town, Doctor May offered to send him down at Bankside. Oh, no, thank you, he cried in entreaty. I cannot see her, Ave. Then come home with me, you shall see no one, and you will look up when you are not faint and fasting. You young men don't stand up against these things like us old stages. As the carriage stopped, several anxious faces were seen on the watch, but the Doctor signed them back till he had deposited Henry in his study, and then came among them. Gertrude was the first to speak. Oh, papa, papa, what is it? Mrs. Pugh has been here to ask, and Ethel won't let me hear. Tom and Orbury know. I took refuge in your order to believe nothing till you came, said Ethel, with hands tightly clasped together. It is true then, asked Tom, true that it looks as bad as bad can be, said the Doctor, sighing heavily, and proceeding to state the aspect of the case. It is a trick, a plot, cried Orbury passionately. I know it is. He always said he would run away if they tried to teach him dishonesty, and now they have done this, and laid the blame on him. Ethel, why don't you say you're sure of it? Leonard would be changed indeed if this were so, said Ethel, trembling as she stood, and hardly able to speak articulately. Orbury broke out with a furious, if, very different from Henry Ward, it would not be the Leonard we knew at Coom, said Ethel. He might be blind with rage, but he would never be cowardly. No, unless he own it, nothing shall ever make me believe it. Own it for shame, Ethel, cried Orbury, and even the Doctor exclaimed, you're as bad as poor Henry himself who has not got soul enough to be capable of trusting his brother. I do trust, said Ethel, looking up. I shall trust his own word, and she sat down without speaking and knitted fast, but her needles clattered. And how about that poor girl at Bankside? said the Doctor. I went down there, said Tom, just to caution the servants against bringing in stories. She found out I was there, and I had to go in and make the best of it. And what sort of a best? said the Doctor. Why? She knew he used to get out in the morning to bathe, and was persuaded he had been drowned. So I told her I knew he was alive and well and that she would hear all about it when you came back. I brought the youngest child away with me and Gertrude has got her upstairs. The other would not come, poor thing. Mary says she is very good and patient, and I must say she was wonderfully reasonable when I talked to her. Thank you, Tom, said his father with warm. It was very kind of you. I wonder if Abe knew anything of this runaway business. It might be the saving of him. I did, said Aubrey eagerly, at least. I know he said he would not stay if they wanted to put him up to their dishonest tricks. And he talked of that very window. Yes, you imprudent fellow, and you were telling Mrs. Puseau, if I hadn't stopped you, said Tom, you'll be taken up for an accomplice next if you don't hold your tongue. What did he say? Asked the doctor impatiently and then declared that he must go instantly to Bankside as soon as both he and Henry had taken some food. Four, he added, we are both too much shaken to deal rationally with her. Ethel started up in shame and dismay at having neglected to order anything. The doctor was served in the study alone with Henry and after the briefest meal was on his way to Bankside. He found Avril with the crimson cheek and beseeching eye that he knew so well as she laid her trembling hand on his and mutely looked up like a dumb creature awaiting a blow. Yes, my dear, he said tenderly, your brother needs prayer such as when we watched him last year. He is in peril of grave suspicion. And as she stood waiting and watching for further explanation, he continued, my dear, he told you everything. You do not know of any notion of his of going away or going out without leave. Why is Leonard to be always suspected of such things? cried Avril. He never did them. Do you know? insisted Dr May. But you were mayor. cried Avril indignantly, withdrawing her hand. You want me to accuse him. My dear, if I were ten times mayor, it would make no difference. My jurisdiction does not even cross the river here. And if it did, this is a graveer case than I deal with. I am come as his friend to beg you to help me to account for his unhappy absence in any harmless way. Were it ever so foolish or wrong, it would be the best news that ever I heard. But, but I can't. said Avril. I never knew he was going out. I know he used to get out at the passage window to bathe and fish before the house was a stir, and you know he is safe, Dr May. Dr May would almost sooner have known that he was at the bottom of the deepest pool in the river than where he was. He is safe, my poor child. He is well, and I trust he will be able to prove his innocence. But he must so account for his absence as to clear himself. Avril, there is a charge against him of being concerned in your uncle's death. Avril's eyes dilated, and she breathed short and fast, standing like a statue. Little Minna, whom the doctor had scarcely perceived, standing in a dark corner, sprang forward, exclaiming, Oh, wave, don't be afraid. Nobody can hurt him for what he did not do. The words roused Avril, and starting forward she cried, Dr May, Dr May, you will save him. He is fatherless and motherless, and his brother has always been harsh to him, but you will not forsake him. You said you would be a father to us. Oh, save Leonard. My dear, as I would try to save my own son, I will do my utmost for him. But little or nothing depends on me or on any man. By truth and justice he must stand or fall, and you must depend on the father of the fatherless who seeth the truth, as this dear child tells you with his hand on Minna's head. He cannot be really injured while he is innocent. Ordin to calm, Avril let him seat her beside him and put her in possession of the main facts of the case, Minna standing by him, her hand in his, evidently understanding and feeling all that past. Neither could throw light on anything. Leonard had been less communicative to them than to Aubrey and had kept his resolution of uncomplainingly drinking the bruce he had brewed for himself. All Avril could tell was that her uncle had once spoken to Henry in commendation of his steadiness and trustworthiness, though at the same time abusing him for heirs and puppyism. Henry would tell you, there is Henry, she added. In my study he could not bear to bring you these tidings. You must be ready to comfort him, Ove. Don't let him come, she cried. He never was kind to Leonard. He drove him there. I shall always feel that it was his doing. Avril, said Dr. May gravely, do you forget how much that increases his suffering? Nothing but mutual charity can help you through this fiery trial. Do not let anger and recrimination take from you the last shreds of comfort and poison your prayers. Promise me to be kind to Henry, for indeed he needs it. Oh, Dr. May, said Minna, looking up with her eyes full of tears. Indeed I will. I was cross to Henry because he was cross to Leonard, but I won't be so any more. Avril drooped her head as if it were almost impossible to her to speak. Dr. May patted Minna's dark head caressingly and said to the elder sister, I will not urge you more. Perhaps you may have Leonard back and then joy will open your hearts. Or if not, my poor Ove, the sight of Henry will do more than my words. Mary looked greatly grieved but said nothing, only following her father to take his last words and directions. Keep her as quiet as you can. Do not worry her, but get out this root of bitterness if you can. Poor, poor things. That little Minna is a dear child, said Mary. She has grown so much older than Ella, or than she was last year. She seems to understand and feel like a grown-up person. I do think she may soften poor Ove more than I can, but papa, there is excuse. Mr. Ward must have made them more miserable than we guess. The more reason she must forgive him, oh Mary, I fear a grievous lesson is coming to them, but I must do all I can. Goodbye, my dear. Do the best you can for them. And he set forth again with a bleeding heart. At the attorney's office, he found the principal from home, but the partner, Edward Anderson, on the key weave for a summons to attend on behalf of his fellow townsmen, and confident that however bad were the present aspect of affairs, his professional eye would instantly find a clue. Aubrey was in an agony of excitement, but unable to endure the notion of approaching a scene of action, and his half-choked, surly dove was sufficient to deter his brother, Thomas, who had never shown himself so kind, considerate and free from sneer or assumption. In hours of ease, he might seem selfish and exacting, but a crisis evoked a latent good in him and drew him out of himself. Nor would Henry return to Bankside. After many vacillations, the moment for starting found him in a fit of despair about the family disgrace, only able to beg that the unhappy boy should be assured that no expense should be spared in his defence, or else that if he were cleared and returned home, his welcome should be most joyful. But there Henry broke off, groaned, said they should never look up again and must leave the place. Except for Avril's own sake, Dr May would almost have regretted his exhortations in favour of her eldest brother. In due time, the doctor arrived at the mill where the inquest was to take place, as the public house was small and inconveniently distant, and there was ample accommodation in the large, rambling building. So crowded was the courtyard that the doctor did not easily make his way to the steps of the hall door. But there, after one brief question to the policeman in charge, he waited, though several times invited in. Before long, all eyes turned one way, as a closed fly with a policeman on the box drove in at the gateway, stopped, and between the two men on guard appeared a tall, young figure. The doctor's first glance showed him a flushed and weary set of features, shocked and appalled. But the eyes, looking straight up in their anxiety, encountered his with an earnest, grateful appeal for sympathy, answered at once by a step forward with outstretched hand. The grip of the fingers was heated, agitated, convulsive, but not tremulous. And there was feeling, not fear, in the low husky voice that said, Thank you, is Henry here? No, he is too, too much overcome, but he hopes to see you at home tonight. And here is Edward Anderson, whom he has sent to watch the proceedings for you. Thank you, said Leonard, acknowledging Edward's greeting, as far as I'm concerned, I can explain all in a minute. But my poor uncle, I little thought there was no opportunity for further speech in private, for the coroner had already arrived and the inquiry had been only deferred until Leonard should have come. The jury had been viewing the body and the proceedings were to take place in the large, low dining room where the southern windows poured in a flood of light and the faces of the persons crowded together and the reflections from the rippling water danced on the ceiling. Dr May had a chair given him near the coroner and keenly watched the two nephews, one seated next to him, the other at some distance, nearly opposite. Both young men looked haggard, shocked and oppressed. The eye of Axworthy was unceasingly fixed on an east stand upon the table and never lifted. His expression never varied and Leonard's glance flashed inquiringly from one speaker to another and his countenance altered with every phase of the evidence. The first witness was Anne Ellis, the young maid servant who told of her coming down at ten minutes after five that morning, the sixth of July and on going in to clean the rooms, finding her master sunk forward on the table. Supposing him to have had a fit, she had run to the window and screamed for help when Master Hardy the foreman and Mrs Giles the housekeeper had come in. James Hardy deposed to having heard the girls cry while he was unlocking the middle door. Coming in by the low sash window, which stood open, he had gone up to his master and had seen the wound on the head and found the body quite cold. Mrs Giles coming in, they had carried it to the bed in the next room and he had gone to call a young gentleman, but neither was in his room. He knew that it had been left uncertain whether Mr Samuel would return to sleep at home between the two days of the county races, but he did not expect Mr Ward to be out and had then observed that his bed had not been slept in and that the passage window outside his room was partly open. He had then thought it best to go into Stonbrough to inform the family. Rebecca Giles, the housekeeper an elderly woman, crying violently, repeated the evidence as to the discovery of the body. The last time she had seen her master alive was when she had carried in his supper at 9 o'clock when he had desired her to send Mr Ward to him and had seen much bext to hear that the young man had not returned from rifle fractures. Little thinking, poor old gentleman, but here the housekeeper was recalled to her subject. The window was then open as it was a sultry night, but the blind down. Her master was a good deal crippled by gout and could not at that time move actively nor right, but could dress himself and close the window. He disliked being assisted and the servants were not in the habit of seeing him from the time his supper was brought in till breakfast next morning. She had seen Mr Ward come home at 20 minutes for half after nine in uniform carrying his rifle. She had given the message and he had gone into the sitting room without putting down the rifle. She believed it to be the one on the table but could not say so on oath. He never let anyone touch it and she never looked at such horrid, murderous things and some remarked highly adverse to the volunteer movement were cut short. William Andrews, groom, had been called by Anne Ellis, had seen the wound and the blood on the desk and had gone to fetch a surgeon and the police from Whitford. On his return saw the rifle leaning against the shutter, believed it to be Mr Ward's rifle. Charles Rankin, surgeon, had been called in to see Mr Axworthy and arrived at seven o'clock a.m. found him dead from a fracture of the skull over the left temple. He should imagine from a blow from a heavy blunt instrument such as the stock of a gun. Death must have been instantaneous and had probably taken place seven or eight hours before he was called in. The marks upon the rifle before him were probably blood but he could not say so upon oath because he had subjected them to microscopic examination. The hair was human and corresponded with that of the deceased. Samuel Axworthy had slept at the three goblets in consequence of finding himself too late for admission at home. He had been wakened at half past five and found all as had been stated by the previous witnesses and he corroborated the housekeeper's account of his uncle's habits. The rifle he believed to belong to his cousin, Leonard Ward. He could not account for Leonard Ward's absence on that morning. No permission, as far as he was aware, had been given him to leave home and he had never known his uncle give him any commission of that hour. The different policemen gave their narrations of the state of things, the open window, the position of the boat, etc. and the ticket clerk at the small bluer station stated that at about 12.15 at night Mr Ward had walked in without baggage and asked for a second-class ticket to London. Leonard here interposed an inquiry whether he had not set a day ticket and the clerk recollected that he had done so and had spoken of returning by four o'clock. But the train, being reckoned as belonging to the previous day, no return tickets were issued for it and therefore taken an ordinary one and started by the mail train. The London policeman who had come down with Leonard stated that in consequence of a telegraphic message he had been at the Paddington station at 6.30 that morning had seen a young gentleman answering to the description sent to him asked if his name were Leonard Ward and receiving a reply in the affirmative was the charge and taken him into custody. The bag that he placed on the table he had found on the young man's person. Everyone was startled at this unexpected corroboration of the suspicion. It was a heavy-looking bag of reddish canvas marked with a black circle containing the letters F-A-GOLD. The neck tied with a string the contents were sovereigns under note or two. Dr May looked piteously despairingly at Leonard but the brow was still open and unclouded the eye glanced back reassurance and confidence. The policeman added that he had cautioned the young man to take care what he said but that he had declared at once that his uncle had sent him to lodge the sum in Drummond's bank and that he would show a receipt for it on his return. The coroner then proceeded to examine Leonard but still as a witness. Edward Anderson spoke to him in an undertone advising him to be cautious and not commit himself but Leonard rather impatiently thanking him took him off and spoke with freedom and openness I have nothing to keep back of course I know nothing of this frightful murder or what villain could have got hold of the rifle which I am sorry to say is really mine. Last evening I used it at drill and practice on Bloor Heath and came home when it grew dusk getting in at about half past nine. I was then told by Mrs Giles that my uncle wished to speak to me and was displeased at my staying out so late. I went into his room as I was and took my rifle down in a corner by the window when he desired me to sit down and listen to him. He then told me that he wished to send me to town by the mail train to take some cash to Drummond's bank and to return by today's four o'clock train. He said he had reasons for wishing no one to be aware of his opening and account there and he undertook to explain my absence. He took the sum from the private drawer of his desk and made me count it before him. 124 pounds, 12 shillings in sovereigns and banknotes. The odd money he gave me for my expenses. The rest I put in the bag that I fetched out of the office. He could not hold a pen and could therefore give me no letter to Mrs Drummond but he made me write a receipt for the amount in his memorandum book. I wished him good night and wished him still sitting in his easy chair with the window open and the blind down. I found that I had forgotten my rifle but I did not go back for it because he disliked the disturbance of opening and shutting doors. While I was changing my dress I saw from the window that someone was still about in the court and knowing that my uncle wished me to avoid notice I thought it best to let myself out by the passage window I had sometimes done in early mornings to bathe or fish and go across the fields to Bloor station. I got down into the garden, crossed in the punt and went slowly by Barnard's hatch. I believe I stopped good many times as it was too soon and a beautiful moonlight night but I came to Bloor soon after 12 and took my ticket. At Paddington I met this terrible news. As the boy spoke his bright eyes turned from one listener to another as though expecting to read satisfaction on their faces. But as doubt and disbelief clouded all his looks became almost constantly directed to Dr May and his voice unconsciously passed from a sound of justification to one of pleading. When he ceased he glanced round as if feeling his innocence established. You gave a receipt Mr Ward said the coroner will you tell us where it is likely to be? It must be either on or in my uncle's desk or in his pocket. Will someone look for it? I wrote it in his memorandum book a curious old black chagrin book with a silver clasp. I left it open on the desk to dry. A policeman went to search for it and the coroner asked what the entry had been. July 5th 1860 received £120 L.A. Ward was the answer. You will find it about the middle of the book or rather past it. At what time did this take place? It must have been towards 10. I cannot tell exactly but it was later than half past nine when I came in and he was a good while bringing out the money. The policeman returned saying he could not find the book and Leonard begging to show where he had left it the coroner and jury accompanied him to the room. At the site of the red stain on the desk a shuddering came over the boy and a whiteness on his heated brow nor could he at once recover himself so as to proceed with the search which was still in vain though with a voice lowered by the sickness of horror he pointed out the place where he had laid it and the pen he had used and desk, table, drawer and the dead man's dress were carefully examined. You must know it Sam said Leonard don't you remember his putting in the check old Billson's check for his year's rent £25 I brought it in and he put it away one day last week you were sitting there Sam stammered something of yes he did recollect something of it Inquiries were made of the other persons concerned with Mr Axworthy Hardy thought his master used such a book but had never seen it near Mrs Giles altogether disbelieved its existence and Sam could not be positive his uncle never allowed anyone to touch his private memorandums As with deep and anxiety Dr May returned to the dining room he caught a glimpse of Henry Ward's desponding face but received a sign not to disclose his presence Edward Anderson wrote unconcided and the coroner looking at his notes again recurred to Leonard's statement that he had seen someone in the yard I thought it was one of the men waiting to take my cousin Axworthy's horse I did not know whether he had ridden or gone by train and I suppose that someone would be looking out for him Questions were asked whether any of the servants had been in the yard but it was denied by all and on a more particular description of the person being demanded Leonard replied that the figure had been in the dark shade of the stables and that he only knew that it was a young man whether a stranger or not he did not know he suppose now that it must have been the murderer but at the time he had thought it one of the stablemen and as his uncle had particularly wished that his journey should be a secret the sight had only made him hasten to put out his life and depart unseen it was most unfortunate that he had done so others ironically whispered most unfortunate the coroner asked Mr Anderson whether he had anything to ask or observe and on his reply in the negative proceeded to sum up the evidence for the consideration of the jury it seemed as if it were only here that Leonard perceived the real gist of the evidence his brow grew hotter his eyes indignant his hands clenched as if he with difficulty restrained himself from breaking in on the coroner's speech and when at length the question was put to the jury he stood the colour fading from his cheek his eyes set and glassy his lip fallen the dew breaking out on his brow every limb as it were petrified by the shock of what was thus first fully revealed to him so he stood while the jury deliberated in low gruff sorrowful murmurs and after a few minutes turned round to announce with much sadness that they could do no otherwise then return a verdict of willful murder against Leonard Ward Mr Leonard Ward said the coroner a gentleman who had well known his father and who spoke with scarcely concealed emotion it becomes my painful duty to commit you to Whitford Jail for trial at the next of sizes Dr May eagerly offered bail rather as the readiest form of kindness than in the hope of its acceptance and it was of course refused but he made his way to the prisoner and rung his chill hand with all his might the pressure seemed to waken the poor lad from his frozen rigidity the warmth came flowing back into his fingers as his friend held him he raised his head shut and reopened his eyes and pushed back his hair as though trying to shake himself loose from a too horrible dream his face softened and quibbered as he met the doctor's kind eyes but bracing himself again he looked up answered the coroner's question that his Christian name was Leonard Axworthy his age within a few weeks of 18 and asked permission to fetch what he should want from his room the policeman in whose charge he was consented both to this and to Dr May being there alone with him for a short time then it was that the boy relaxed the strain on his features and said in a low and strangled voice oh Dr May if you had only let me die with him last year it was not I who saved you he who sent you that ordeal will bring you through this said Dr May with a great sob in his throat that belied his words of cheer I thank him at least for having taken her said Leonard resting his head on the mantel shelf beneath his mother's picture while his little dog sat at his foot looking up at him cowed and wistful Dr May strove for words of comfort but broke down utterly and could only cover his face with his hands and struggle with his emotion unable to utter a word yet perhaps none would have been so comforting as his genuine sympathy although it was in a voice of extreme distress that Leonard exclaimed Dr May, Dr May, Prado you ought not to grieve for me I'm a fool said Dr May after some space fighting hard with himself nonsense we shall see you out of this we have only to keep up a good heart and we shall see it explained I don't know I can't understand said Leonard passing his hand over his weary forehead why could they not believe when I told them just how it was at that moment the policeman opened the door saying here sir and Henry hurried in pale and breathless not looking in his brother's face as he spoke fast and low Ned Anderson says there's nothing at all to be made of this defence of yours it is of no use to try it the only thing is to earn that he found hope for you and in one of your ages you know you too Henry said Leonard in dejected reproach why why it is impossible it could have been otherwise open window, absconding and all we all know you never meant it but your story won't stand and the only chance Anderson says is to go in for manslaughter if you could only tell anything that would give him a clue to pick up evidence while the people are on the spot Leonard's face was convulsed for a moment while his brother was speaking but he recovered calmness of voice as he mournfully answered I have no right to wonder at your suspicion of me Henry for the first time really looked at him and instinctively faltered I beg your pardon indeed said Leonard with the same subdued manner I cannot believe that any provocation could make me strike a person like that old man and here there was none at all except that he was vexed at first at by being late he had never been so near kindness then is this extraordinary story the truth why should I not tell the truth was the answer too mournful for indignation Henry again cast down his eyes Leonard moved about making preparations Doctor May lent against the wall all too much oppressed for speech Till as Leonard stooped poor little Mab thrusting her black head into his hand drew from him the words my doggy what is to become of you a sort of horse explosion of AVE from Henry was simultaneous with the doctors I tried to get her home with me in the morning but she waited your orders Miss May would not have her now after all Prussick acid would be the truest mercy said Leonard holding the little creature up to his face and laying his cheek against her silken coat with almost passionate affection not while there are those who trust your word Leonard as Ethel said this morning he raised the face which he had hidden against the dog and looked earnestly at the doctor as if hardly venturing to understand him then a ray of real gladness and comfort darted into his eyes which so enlivened Doctor May that he was able to say cheerfully we will take good care of her till you cover for her then Henry said Leonard it is not unkindness nor that I remember things but indeed I think it will be better for you all since Doctor May is so so but kind was so inadequate that it stuck in his throat take this to Ave putting his mother's likeness in his hand and tell her I will write poor Ave Leonard imploringly shook his head the mention of his sister shook him more than he could bear and he asked for time nearly six only six what an endless day there I am ready there is no use in delaying I suppose I must show what I am taking with me wait said his brother can you not say anything to put us on the track of the man in the yard I did not see him playing no notion said Henry with a movement of annoyance no I only looked for a moment where I was much more anxious to get off quietly than to make anyone out if I had only waited ten minutes it might have been the saving of his life but my commission was so like fun and so important too that I thought of nothing else can it be not twenty four hours ago and why don't you explain why he sent you I cannot say it so certainly as to be of the slightest use said Leonard he never expressed it either and I have no right to talk of my suspicions hey was it to put it out of Sam's way so I suppose Sam used to get all he chose out of the poor old man and I believe he thought this the only chance of keeping anything for himself but he never told me so stay Billson's check might be tracked I took it myself and gave the receipt you will find it entered in the books paid on either the twenty third or fourth then there's something to do at any rate cried Henry, invigorated Anderson shall hunt out the balance and Sam's draughts on it I'll spare no expense Leonard if it is to my last bathing and you shall have the best counsel that can be retained Leonard signed thanks with some heartiness and was going to the door when Henry detained him tell me Leonard, have you no suspicion it must have been the person I saw in the court and like a fool did not watch the window was open and he could have easily got in and come out can't they see that if it had been me I should have made off at once that way only you could tell us what the fellow was like I told you he was in the dark said Leonard and without giving time for more he called in the man outside showed the clothes and books he had selected put them into his bag and declared himself ready giving his hand to the doctor who drew him near and kissed his brow as if he had been Harry setting forth on a voyage goodbye my dear fellow, God bless you I'll soon come to see you and I said Henry will bring Bramshaw to see what is to be done Leonard wrung his brother's hand murmuring something of love to his sisters then put Mab into Doctor May's arms with injunctions that the little creature understood and obeyed for though trembling and whining under her breath she was not resisting it might be to shorten her distress as well as his own that Leonard passed quickly downstairs and entered the carriage that was to take him to the county jail End of Chapter 12 Chapter 13 of the trial this is a LibriVox recording all LibriVox recordings are in the public domain for more information or to volunteer please visit LibriVox.org recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen Gilbert, Arizona the trial by Charlotte Mary Young Chapter 13 tears are not always fruitful they're hot drops sometimes but scorch the cheek and dim the eye despairing murmurs over blackened hopes not the meek spirits calm and chase and cry oh, better not to weep than weep amiss for hard it is to learn to weep a right to keep wise tears the tears that heal and bless the tears which their own bitterness required H. Bonner to one of the most tender-hearted of human beings had the office of conveying ill tidings been most often committed and again Doctor May found himself compelled to proceed Henry Ward into the sister's presence and to break to her the result of the inquest he was no believer in the efficacy of broken news but he could not refuse when Henry in his wretchedness entreated not to be the first in the infliction of such agony so he left the carriage outside and walked up to the door and there stood April with Ethel a few steps behind her his presence was enough revelation had things gone well he would not have been the forerunner and April meaning perhaps to speak gave a horse hysterical shriek so frightful as to drive away other anxieties and summon Henry in from his watch outside all day the poor girl had kept up an unnatural strain on her powers vehemently talking about the things and with burning cheeks and shining eyes moving incessantly from one employment to another now her needle now her pencil roaming around the garden gathering flowers or playing rattling polkas that have stunned Ethel in her intense listening for tidings Ethel who had relieved guard and sent Mary home in the afternoon had vainly striven to make a rest or take food the attempt had brought on such choking that she could only desist and wait for the crisis the attack was worse than any ordinary hysterics almost amounting to convulsions and all that could be done was to prevent her from hurting herself and try to believe Dr. May's assurance that there was no real cause for alarm and that the proxisms would exhaust themselves in time they were spent and ably on her bed half torped feebly moaning but with an instinctive dread of being disturbed Henry anxiously watched over her and Dr. May thought it best to leave the brother and sister to one another absolute quiet was best for her and he had skill and tenderness enough to deal with her and was evidently somewhat relieved by the necessity of waiting on her it was the best means, perhaps, of uniting them that they should be best left together and Dr. May would have taken home little pale fright Mina who had been very helpful all the time oh please not Dr. May, she said earnestly indeed I will not be troublesome I will give Henry his tea and carry Aves' cup please Henry don't send me and she took hold of his hand and laid it against her cheek he bent down over her and fondled her and there were tears that he could not hide as he tried both to thank Dr. May and tell her that she may not leave him no, said Dr. May, it will be cruel to both of you goodbye little Mina I never wanted to carry away a little comforter believe your right papa, said Ethel as she went out with him to the carriage but I longed to stay, it is like doing something for that boy the best you did for him poor dear boy was the saying you trusted his word the moment I told him that, he took comfort and energy Ethel's lips moved into a strange half-smile and she took map on her lap and fondled her yes, she said, I believe I stand for a good deal in his imagination I was afraid he would have been wrecked upon that horrid place but, after all, this may be the saving of him ah, if that story of his would only be more versatile Bob there was only time briefly to narrate it before coming home where the first person they met was Aubrey exceeding pale and in great distress papa, I must tell you, said drawing him into this study I have done terrible harm, I'm afraid and he explained that in the morning when Mrs. Pugh had come down full of inquiries and conjectures and had spoken of the possibility of Leonard's having been drowned while bathing he had ungargledly answered that it could be no such thing Leonard had always meant to run away and by that very window if the acts were these grew too bad Prudin Tom had silenced him at the time but had since found that it had got abroad that the evasion had long been meditated with Aubrey's privity and had been asked by one of the constabulary force if his brother would not be an important witness Tom had replied that he knew nothing about it but Aubrey was in great misery, furious with Mrs. Pugh and only wanting his father to set off at once to assure them it was all nonsense no, Aubrey, they neither would nor ought to take my word just here, papa, and you would know the chafe it was I cannot hear Aubrey if we were to discuss it, we might give it an unconscious covering you must calm your mind and exactly recall what passed but do not talk about it to me or to anyone else you must do nothing to impair the power of perfect truth and accuracy which is a thing to be prayed for if anyone, even the lawyer who may have to get up the case against him asks you about it you must refuse to answer till the trial and then why the issue is in the hands of him that judges righteously I shall never remember nor speak with his eyes on me seeing me betray him you will be no worse off than I, my boy for I see I am in for identifying Hector's rifle the mill people can't swear to it and my doing it will save his brother something no, it is not like me oh, I wish I had stayed at Eaton even if I had died of it Tom says it all comes of living with women that I can't keep my mouth shut and Leonard will be so hurt that I nay, any tolerable counsel will make a capital defense out of the mere fact of his redomentating what, is that no comfort to you? what, to be the means of making a fool of him before all the court seeing him hear our talk by the riverside sifted by those horrid lawyers the doctor looked even graver and his eye fixed as on a thought far away as the boy's grief brought to his mind the great assize when all that is spoken in the ear shall indeed be proclaimed on the housetops there was something almost childish in this despair of Aubrey for he had not become alarmed for the result of the trial his misery was chiefly shame at his supposed treason to friendship and failure in Manly Reserve and he could not fold up his head all the evening but silently devoted himself to Man endeavouring to make her at home and meeting with tolerable success Tom was no less devoted to Ella Ward it was he who had brought her home and he considered her therefore as his charge it was curious to see the difference that a year had made between her and Nina they had the last summer been like one child they had taken the stroke that had orphaned them in the same childish manner but whether the year from eight to nine had been a special growth to Nina or whether there had been a stimulus in our constant association with April the present sorrow fell on her as on one able to enter into it think and feel and assume her sweet mission of comfort whilst Ella, though neither hard nor insensible was still child enough to close her mind to what she dreaded and flee willingly from the pain and tedium of affliction she had willingly accepted Mr. Tom's invitation and as willingly responded to his attentions Gertrude did not like people in the little girl stage and the elder sisters had their hands and hearts full and could only care for her in essentials but Tom undertook her amusement treated her to an exhibition of his microscope and played at French billiards with her the rest of the evening till she was carried off to bed in Mary's room when he pronounced her a very intelligent child I think her a very unfeeling little thing said Gertrude very unbecoming behavior under the circumstances what would you think becoming behavior asked Tom I won't encourage it returned Daisy with dignified decision that gave her father his first approach to a laugh on that day but nobody was in spirits to desire Miss Daisy to define from what her important sanction was withdrawn Mary gave up her Sunday school class to see how April was and found Henry much perturbed he had seen her fast asleep at night and in the morning men had carried up her breakfast and he was about to follow it as soon as his own was finished when he found that she had slipped out of the house leaving a message that she was gone to practice on the harmonium he was of the mind that none of the family could or ought to be seen at church and though Mary could not agree with him she willingly consented to go to the chapel and try what she could do with his sister she met Mrs. Ludwig on the way coming to inquire and see whether she or Dear Martilda could do anything for the sweet sufferer even Mary could not help thinking that this was not the epitaph most befitting for Abe and perhaps Mrs. Ludwig's companionship made her the less regret that Abe had locked herself in so that there was no making her hear though the solemn chants played with great fervor reached them as they waited in the porch they had their own seats in the minster and therefore could not wait till a sextant should come to open the church there was no time for another visit till after the second service and then Dr. May and Mary going to Bankside found that instead of returning home Abe had again locked herself out between the services that Mina who had ventured on a mission of recall had come home crying hardly both at the dreary disappointment of knocking in vain and at the grand mournful sounds of funeral marches that had fallen on her ear everyone who had been at the chapel that day was speaking of the wonderful music the force and the melody of the voluntary at the dispassal of the congregation no one had believed that such power resided in the harmonium Mr. Scudamore had spoken to Miss Ward most kindly both before and after evening service but his attempt to take her home had been unavailing she had answered that she was going presently and he was obliged to leave her evening was coming on and she had not come so the other keys were fetched from the sextants and Dr. May and his daughter set off to Strongmore Fortress like Mina the doctor was almost overpowered by the wonderful plaintive sweetness of the notes that were floating through the atmosphere like a wailing voice of supplication they had almost unnerved him as he waited while Mary unlocked the door the sound of his opening hushed the music Averill turned her head and recognizing them came to them very pale and with sunken eyes you are coming home to your aid said Mary and she made no resistance or objection only saying yes it has been so nice here you must come now though said the doctor your brother is very much grieved that you're leaving him I did not mean to be unkind to him said Averill in a low subdued voice he was very good to me last night only this is peace this pointing to her instrument is such a soothing friend and surely this is the place to wait in the place to wait in indeed my poor child if you are not increasing the distress of others by staying here besides you must not exhaust yourself or how are you to go and cheer Leonard oh there is no fear but that I shall go tomorrow said Averill I mean to do it the last words being spoken in a resolute tone unlike the weariness of her former replies and with this purpose before her she consented to be taken back by Mary to rest on the sofa and even to try to eat and drink her brother and sister hung over her and waited on her with a tender assiduous attention that showed how they had missed her all day and she received their kindness gratefully as far as her broken weird state permitted several inquiries had come throughout the day from the neighbors and while Mary was still with Eve a message was brought in to ask whether Miss Ward would like to see Mrs. Pugh oh no no thank her but indeed I cannot say that Averill shivering uncontrollably as she lay Mary felt herself blushing in the wonder what would be kindest to do in her dread of seeing Henry's face she was sure that he too shrank and she ventured to ask shall I go and speak to her oh do do said Averill shudderingly devious thank you Miss Mary said Henry slowly she is most kind but under the circumstances Mary went finding that he only hesitated she had little opportunity for saying anything Mrs. Pugh was full of interest and eagerness and poured out her sympathy and perfect understanding of dear Averill's feelings and in the midst Henry came out of the room with a stronger version of their gratitude but in terrible confusion Mary would feign have retreated but could not and was witnessed to the ladies urgent entreaties and Henry's thankfulness but he feared and retreated to ask the opinion of his sisters while Mrs. Pugh told Mary that it was so very bad for the poor child to remain and begged to have Ella as she were a moment's inconvenience to the May family Henry came back with repeated thanks but Mina could not bear to leave home and in fact he owned with a half smile that gave sweetness to his face she was too great for the comfort to be parted with so Mrs. Pugh departed with doubled and trebled offers of service and entreaties to be sent for at any hour of the day or night when she could be of use to Averill Mary could not but be pleased with her officious as she was it looked as if she had more genuine feeling for Henry than had been suspected and the kindness was certain though some of it might be the busy activity of a not very delicate nature for the importance conferred by intimacy with the subjects of a great calamity probably she would have been gratified by the claw of being the beloved of the brother of the youth whose name was in every mouth and her real goodness and benevolent heart would have committed her affections and interests beyond recall to the ward family had Averill linked upon her or had Henry exerted himself to take advantage of her advances but Henry's attachment had probably not been loved or seemed utterly crushed out of him by his shame and despair everything connected with his past life was hateful to him he declared that he could never show his face at Stoneborough again let the result be what it might that he could never visit another patient and that he should change his name and leave the country beginning on that very Sunday afternoon to write a letter to his principal rival to negotiate this sale of his practice in fact his first impression had returned on him and though he never disclaimed belief in Leonard's statement the entire failure of all confirmation convinced him that the blow had been struck by his brother in sudden anger and that defend him as he might and would the stain was on his house and the guilt will be brought home resolved however to do his utmost he went with Mr. Bradshaw for consultations with Leonard on the Monday April could not go she rose and dressed and remained resolute till nearly the last minute when her feverish faint giddiness overpowered her and she was forced to submit to lie on the sofa under Mina's care and there she lay restless and wretched to a wise old Mina sent a message up to the high street which brought down Mary and Dr. Spencer they found her in a state of nervous fever that sentenced her to her bed Mary deposited her and watched over her till her brothers returned more desponding than ever Dr. May with all Henry's patience on his hands as well as his own had been forced to devote his entire day to his profession but on the next leaving Henry to watch over April who continued very feeble and feverish he went to Whitford almost infected by Henry's forebodings and Mr. Bradshaw's misgivings it is a bad case the attorney had said to him confidentially but that there is always a great reluctance to convict upon circumstantial evidence I should have very little hope that story of his is so utterly impractical and yet he looks so innocent and earnest all the time and sticks to it so consistently that I don't know what to make of it I can't do anything with him nor can his brother either but perhaps you might make him understand to bring him clear off for manslaughter youth and character and all I should not doubt of a verdict for a moment it is awkward about the money that the alarm would be considered in the sentence you don't attend to his account of the person he saw in the courtyard the less sad about that the better return Mr. Bradshaw it would only go for an awkward attempt to shift off the suspicion unless he would give any description and that he can't or won't do or even if he did the case would be all the stronger against his story setting off and leaving a stranger to maraud about the place no, Dr. May the only thing for it is to persuade the lad to own taff and instruct the old man in a passion everyone knows old acts where they could be intolerably abusive and the boy always was passionate don't you remember his flying out at Mr. Rivers' the night of the party and that affair which was the means to kill it all I don't mind saying so to you in confidence because I know you won't repeat it and I see his brother thinks so too but nothing is likely to turn out so well for him as that line of defense as things stand now the present one is good for nothing Dr. May was almost as much grieved at the notion of the use persistence in denying such crime as at the danger in which it involved him and felt that if he were to be brought to confession it should be from repentance, not expediency in this mood he drove to Woodford jail made application at the gates and was conducted up the stairs to the cell the three days of nearly entire solitude and of awful expectation had told like double the number of years and there was a stamp of grave earnest collectiveness on the young brow and a calm resolution of aspect and movement free from all excitement or embarrassment Leonard Ward stood up with a warm grateful greeting so full of ingenuous reliance that every doubt vanished at the same moment his first question was for Averill and Dr. May made the best of her state she slept a little more last night and her pulse is lower this morning but we keep her in bed, have to hinder her from trying to come here before she is fit I believe this ailment is the best thing for her and Henry both added the doctor how much pain his words were given Henry is a very good nurse it occupies him and it is good for her to feel his kindness then Mena has come out in the prettiest way she never fails in some sweet little tender word or caress just when it is wanted Leonard tried to smile but only succeeded in keeping back a sob and the doctor discharged his memory of the messages of love of which he had been the depository Leonard recovered his composure during these and was able to return a smile on Harry Novella's conquest of Tom of their Bible prints on Sunday and their unworried French billiards in the week then he asked after a little mad she is all a dog should be said Dr. May Aubrey is her chief friend except when she is lying at her ease on Ethel's dress the old test of dog love perhaps occurred to Leonard for his lips trembled and his eyes were dewy even while they beamed with gladness she is a great comfort to Aubrey the doctor added I must beg you to send that poor fellow your forgiveness for he is exceedingly unhappy about something he repeated in the first unguarded moment Mr. Bramsha told me said Leonard with brow contracted I cannot believe said Dr. May that it can do you any role harm I do not think the prosecution ought to take notice of it but if they do it will be easy and make it tell rather in your favor maybe so said Leonard still coldly then you will cheer him with some kind message to be sure it is the time for me to be forgiving everyone he answered with a long, tightly drawn breath much distressed the doctor paused in uncertainty whether Leonard were actuated by dread of the disclosure or resentment at the breach of confidence but ere he spoke the struggle had been fought out and a sweet sad face was turned round him with the words horrible Aubrey tell him not to mind there will be worse to be told out than our romances together and he will feel it more than I shall don't let him vex himself thank you said the father warmly I call that pardon not that there is anything to forgive said Leonard only it is odd that one cares for it more than no, don't tell him that but that I know it does not signify it must not come between us if this is to be the end and it will make no difference nothing can do that but the finding of my receipt I see that book night and day before my eyes with the very blot that I made in the top of my L you know they are searching garden and fields and advertising a reward in case of it having been thrown away when rifled or found to contain no valuables yes and he rested on the word as though much lay behind do you think it contained anything worth keeping only by one person ha said the doctor with a start instead of answering Leonard linked down on the narrow bed on which he receded and shed in his face between his hands the doctor waited guessed and grew impatient you don't mean that fellow Sam do you think he has it I should like to throttle him as sure as my name stick may this in soliloquy between his teeth speak up Leonard if you have any suspicion the lad lifted himself with great resolution that gave him dignity doctor may he said I know that what I say is safe with you and it seems disrespectful to ask your word and honor beforehand but I think it will be better for us both if you will give them not to make use of what I tell you so that I shall be saying it to the wrong person unless I have it out with you you promise me to make no use of it without your consent repeated the doctor with rising hope that this is no case for scruples too much is at stake you need not tell me that Leonard replied with a shudder but I have no proof I have thought again and again and again but can find no possible witness he was always cautious and drank made him savage but not noisy then you believe the silence told the rest if I did not see how easy people find it to believe the same of me on the mere evidence of circumstances I should have no doubt said Leonard deliberately then it was he that you saw in the yard remember all I saw was that a man was there I concluded it was Andrews waiting to take the horse and as he is a great hanger on of sand I wish to avoid him and not keep my candle to light to attract his attention that was the whole reason of my getting out of window and starting so soon as unlucky a thing as I could have done you are sure it was not Andrews now I am you see sand sent home his horse from the station though I did not know it and if you remember Andrews was shown to have been at his father's long before if he had been the man he could speak to the time my light was put out but putting out of your light must have been a signal for the day to be done my poor uncle one might he steer round as if he thought the walls would betray him and started every chinking of that unhappy gold in his helpless hands if we had only known who was near perhaps behind the blinds and Leonard Gaff but this secrecy Leonard I cannot understand it do you mean that the poor old man does not do what he would with his own just so whenever Sam knew that he had a sum of money he laid hands on it nothing was safe from him that Mr. Axworthy had in the Whitford bank that could be proved from the accounts you recollect the little parlor between the office and my uncle's sitting room there I used to sit in the evening and to feel rather than hear the way Sam used to bully the poor old man once a fortnight ago just after that talk with Aubrey I knew he had been drinking and watched and came in upon them when there was no bearing it any longer I was sworn at for my pains and almost kicked out again but after that Mr. Axworthy made me sit in the room as if I were protection and I made up my mind to bear it as long as he lived surely the servants would bear witness to this state of things I think not their rooms are too far off for overhearing and my uncle saw as little of them as possible this is Giles with Sam's nurse and cares for him more than any other creature she would not say a word against him even if she knew anything and my uncle would never have complained he was fond of Sam to the last proud of his steeple chases and his cleverness and desperately afraid of him in a sort of bondage entirely past daring to speak I know said Dr. May remembering how his own Tom had been fettered and tongue-tied by that same tyrant in Boyhood but he spoke to you no said Leonard after that scene much was implied between us but nothing mentioned I cannot even tell whether he trusted me or only made me serve as a protector I believe that role was about this money which he had got together in secret and that Sam suspected and wanted to extort but it was exactly as I said at the inquest he gave no reason for sending me up to town with it he knew that I knew why and so said no more than that it was to be private it was pitiful to see that man so fierce and bold as they say he once was trembling as if doing something by stealth and the great hard-noddy hands so crumpled and shaky that he had to leave all to me and that they should fancy I could go and hurt him said Leonard stretching his broad chest and shoulders in conscious strength yes considering her was I do not wonder that you feel the passion theory as insulting as the accusation I ought not said Leonard Redding everyone knows what my temper can do I do not think that a poor old feeble man like that could have provoked me to be so cowardly but I see it is no wonder they think so only they might suppose I would not have been a robber and go online now when they take good care to tell me that it is ruinous it is an intolerable shame that they can look you in the face and imagine it for a moment said the doctor with all his native warmth after all said Leonard recalled by his sympathy it is my own fault from beginning to end that I am in this case I see now that it was only God's mercy that prevented my brother's blood being on me and it was my unrepentant obstinacy that brought me to the mill so there will be no real injustice in my dying and I expect nothing else hush Leonard depend upon it while there is justice in heaven the true criminal cannot go free cried the doctor much agitated Leonard shook his head boyish hastiness is not murder added the doctor so I thought but it might have been and I never repented I brought all this on myself and while I cannot feel guiltless in God's sight I cannot expect it to turn out well turn out well repeated the doctor we want Ethel to tell us that this very repentance and owning of the sin is turning out well better than going on in it I can see that said Leonard I do hope that if if I can take this patiently it may show I am sorry for the real thing and I may be forgiven oh I am glad prisoners are not cut off from church doctor may prest his hand in much emotion and there was a silence before another question whether there were nothing that could be of service one chance there is that Sam might relent enough to put that receipt where it could be found without implicating him he must know what it would do for me you are convinced that he has it there must be papers in the book valuable to him perhaps some that he had rather were not seen most likely he secured it in the morning you remember he was there before the police I I I this count rule but Leonard what possessed you not to speak out at the inquest when we might have searched every soul on the premises I did not see it then I was stunned by the horror of the thing the room where I had been so lately and that blood on my own rifle too it was all I could do at one time not to faint and I had no notion they would not take my explanation then when I found it rejected and everything closing in on me I was in a complete maze it was not till yesterday when I was alone again after having gone over my defense with Mr. Branshaw and shown what I could prove that I saw exactly how it must have been as clear as a somnambulist I sometimes could fancy I had seen Sam listening at the window and have to struggle not to think I knew him under the stable wall and you are not such a such a so absurd as to sacrifice yourself to any scruple and let the earth be combered with a rascal who if he be withholding the receipt is committing a second murder it is not generosity it is suicide it is not generosity said the boy for if there were any hope that would not stop me but no one heard nor saw about myself and I neither recognized him no I did not nor heard anything definite from my uncle even if I had no one no one but you believes a word I speak nay even my own case shows what my abilities are worth and that I may be doing him the same wrong that I am suffering I should only bring on myself the shame and disgrace of accusing another the steady low voice and unvoiced language showed him to be speaking from reflection not impulse the only tremulous moment was when he spoke of the one friend who trusted him and whom his words were filling with a tumult of hope and alarm admiration well well the doctor said almost I am glad you've been open with me it may be a clue can there be any excuse for overhauling his papers or can't we pick a hole in that alibi of his now I recollect he headed very pat and then necessarily prominent I'll find some way of going to work without compromising you yes you may trust me I'll watch but say not a word thank you said letter I'm glad it is you you who would never think a vague hope of saving me better than disgrace and dishonor we will save you said the doctor becoming eager to escape to that favorite counselor the lining of his poem which had inspired him with the right theory of many a perplexing symptom and he trusted would show him how to defend without betraying Leonard I must go and see about it is there anything I can do for you books or anything no thank you except I suppose there would be no objection to my having a few finer steel pens and to explain this once he took up his prayer book which his sister had decorated with several small devotional prints copying these minutely lying by lying in pen and ink was the solace of his prison hours and though the work was hardly after destroying master's rules the hand was not untaught and there was talent and soul enough in the work to strike the doctor it suits me best said Leonard I should go distracted with nothing to do and I can't read much at least not common books and my sister has been like to have them will you let me do one for you the speaking expression of those hazel eyes almost overcame the doctor and his answer was by hand and grasping hand Leonard turned to the collects and merely opened at the print of the son of consolation which he had already outlined looked up at his friend and turned away only saying two or three of the sort with the elastic nibs they have them at the post office yes I'll take care said doctor may afraid to trust his self command any longer goodbye Leonard Tom says I adopt everyone to a bad enough fever so what will you be to me after this second attack the result of the doctor's consultation with his brawl was his stopping it at Mr. Bramsha's door to ascertain whether the search for the receipt had extended to young expertise papers but he found that they had been thoroughly examined every facility haven't been given by their owner who was this uncle's executor and residuary Leonard T well dated five years back leaving a thousand pounds to the late Mrs. Ward and a few other legacies but the mask the property to the nephew Sam's facilities not satisfying the doctor it was further explained that every endeavor was being made to discover what other documents were likely to have been kept in the missing memorandum book so as to lead to the detection of any person who might present any such at a bank that everything was being done short of the impractic ability of searching an unaccused man but he could not but proceed that Mr. Bramsha's ifs indicate a great doubt of the existence of receipt and of pocketbook throwing out a hint that the time of Sam's return should be investigated he learned that this had been Edward Anderson's first measure and that it was clear from the independent testimony of the Osler at Woodford and who had driven Sam and the landlord of the three goblets that there was not more than time for the return exactly as described at the inquest and though the horse was swift and powerful and might probably have been driven at drunken speed this was too entirely conjectural for anything to be founded on it nor had the check by Billson on the Woodford bank come in something must assuredly happen to accelerate the guilt list it would be a faint to doubt said dr May continually to himself and to the wards but Leonard's secret was a painful birthing that he could scarcely have worn without sharing it with that daughter who was his other self and well proved to be a safe repository that's my Leonard said Ethel I know him much better now than any time since the outbolt affair they have not managed to ruin him among them what do you call this dr May understanding her indeed but willing to hear her thought expressed thank worthy she answered with a twitching of the corners of her mouth you will suffer for this exaltation he said sadly you know you have a tender heart for all your flights and you know you have a soul as well as a heart said Ethel as well as the swelling in her throat would allow to be sure this world would be a poor place if admiration did not make pity bearable said the doctor but don't ask me Ethel you have not had that fine fellow in his manly patience before your eyes talk of your knowing him you know a boy I tell you this has made him a man and one of a thousand so high minded and so simple so clear headed and well balanced so entirely resigned and free from bitterness what could he not be it would be grievous to see him cut off by a direct dispensation sickness accident battle but for him to come to such an end for the sake of a double murderer Ethel it would almost stagger one's faith almost repeated Ethel with a smile of a conqueror I know I know said the doctor if it be so it will be right one will try to believe it good for him nay there's proof enough in what it has done for him already if you could only see him I mean to see him if it should go against him said Ethel if you will let me I would go to him as I would if he were in a decline and with more reverence don't talk of it for true sake for justice's sake for the country's sake cannot will not believe it will go wrong there is a providence after all Ethel and the doctor went away afraid a like of hope and despondency an Ethel thought of the bright young face of de Wilton of Joe and of the martyrs and when she was not encouraging Aubrey or soothing Avril her heart was sink and the tears that would not come would have been very comfortable it was well for all that the ascises were so near that the suspense was not long protracted for it told upon all concerned Leonard when the doctor saw him again was of the same way of thinking but his manner was more agitated he could not sleep or if he slept the anticipations chased away in the daytime revanged themselves in his dreams and he was very unhappy also about his sister whose illness continued day after day she was not acutely ill but in a constant state of low fever every faculty in the most painful state of tension convinced that she was quite able to get up and go to Leonard and that her detention was mere cruelty and then on trying to rise refused by fainting her searching questions and art and eyes made it impossible to keep any feature in the case from her knowledge sleep was impossible to her and once when Henry tried the effect of an anodyne it produced a semi delirium which made him hardly repent of his independent measure at all times she was talking nothing but the being left with a very stolid maidservant ever closed her lips and she so greatly resented being thus treated that the measure was seldom possible Henry seldom left her he was convinced that Leonard's sentence would be hers likewise and he watched over her with the utmost tenderness and patience with her fretfulness and waywardness never quitting her except on their brother's behalf when Ethel or Mary would take his place Ludmilla was always to be found on her small chair by the bedside or moving about like a mouse sometimes whispering her one note they can't hurt him if he has not done it and still quietly working at the pair of slippers that had been begun for his birthday present Mary used to bring Ella and take them out walking in the least frequented panel but though the little sisters kissed eagerly and went fondly hand in hand they never were sorry to part Ella's spirits oppressed Mina and Mina's depression vexed a more volatile sister moreover Mina always dreaded Mary's desire to carry her away as poor child she looked paler and her eyes heavier and darker every day no one else except of course Dr. May was admitted Henry would not let his sister see Mr. Scudamore or Mr. Wilmot lest she should be excited and April's no one was vehement as a defense against Mrs. Pugh or Mrs. Ludwitch whom she suspected of wanting to see her though she never heard of more than their daily inquiries Mrs. Pugh was, in spite of her exclusion, the great authority with the neighborhood for all the tidings of the poor wards of whom she talked with the warmest commissuration relating every touching detail of their previous and present history and continually enduring great shock of meeting people in shops or in the streets whom she knew to be reporters or photographers. In fact the catastrophe had taken a strong hold on the public mind and murder of an uncle by his nephew the bluer tragedy figured everywhere in the largest type news boys on the railway shouted today's paper count of inquest and the illustrated press sent down artists whose three-legged cameras stared in all directions from the Ventry Mill to Bankside and who aimed at the school, the Minster the Volunteers and Dr. Hoxton himself. Tom advised Ethel to guard Matt carefully from appearing stuffed in the chamber of horrors that Madame Tussauds and the furniture at the mill would have commended any price. Nay, Mrs. Pugh was almost certain she had seen one of the horrid men bargaining with the local photographer for her own portrait in her weeds and was resolved the interesting injury should never be forgiven. She really had the trying scenes of two interviews with both Mr. Bramshaw and the attorney from Whitford who was getting up the prosecution each having been told that she was in possession of important intelligence. Mr. Bramshaw was not sanguine as to what he might obtain from her but flattered her with the attempt and ended by assuring her, like his opponent that there was no need to expose her to the unpleasantness of appearing in court. Aubrey was not to have the same relief but was, like his father, subpoenaed as a witness for the prosecution. He had followed his father's advice and took care not to disclose his evidence to the enemy as he regarded the Whitford lawyer. He was very miserable and it was as much for his sake as that of the immediate family that Ethel rejoiced that the suspense was to be short. Counsel of high reputation had been retained but as the day came nearer, without bringing any of the disclosures on which the doctor had so securely reckoned more and more stress was laid on the dislike to convict on circumstantial evidence and on the saying that the English law had rather quit ten criminals than condemn one innocent man. End of Chapter 13 Recording by Nancy Cochran-Gergen Gilbert, Arizona