"My Lord and gentlemen of the jury—yesterday you heard the case for the prosecution, and the long chain of circumstantial evidence that all went to show the guilt of the prisoner at the bar. Had I known yesterday the facts I am about to put before you, I need scarcely say I should have interposed at once, and so saved a wasted day. We now have a complete answer to the charge—the best answer possible—the person who altered the cheque has come forward at the eleventh hour and has made a full confession." A loud burst of conversation mingled with applause greeted this dramatic announcement, and when the ushers had secured silence the Judge spoke: "If there is any repetition of this most improper demonstration, I shall clear the Court." Mr. Mathew was already on his feet. "My Lord, may I ask my learned friend if he proposes to put in a written confession?" Mr. Marshall signified assent. "Then, m’ Lord, I must object." Mr. Marshall, who was still standing, replied at once: "It is an affidavit, my Lord, and as such is legal evidence." "I object, m’ Lord!" Mr. Mathew interposed. "Will you state the grounds of your objection?" the Judge said. "Certainly, m’ Lord; I am instructed that the person who has executed the affidavit is merely an accomplice of the prisoner at the bar, and their relationship is such as to warrant the gravest doubts of its genuine nature. I am instructed, m’ Lord, not to accept this confession, and I must insist on my right to cross-examine, if this affidavit is put in." "Are you prepared to call this witness, Mr. Marshall?" "I am in your Lordship’s hands; if your Lordship rules that I cannot put in this affidavit without, I have no alternative." A buzz of conversation was instantly suppressed by a loud cry of "Silence in Court!" from the usher. The Judge replied: "I so rule. Let the witness be called!" "Ruby Strode!" Mr. Marshall said in a loud voice. "Ruby Strode!" came the stentorious tones of the usher. Every eye was turned to the door by which witnesses enter, and the strain of expectancy was intensified by a second loud call, "Ruby Strode!" followed a moment later by sounds of scuffling feet and eager whispers, as a slight figure, wearing a small toque, and thick veil, came through the door, and quickly made her way to the witness-box. Rupert, who was clutching the rail in front of him, was white to the lips; and the Judge, noticing his condition, ordered a chair to be given him, and he at once sank on to it gratefully. He was stunned by the course things had taken, for Mr. Marshall had purposely kept the news of Ruby’s return from him, fearing the consequences. Was this the reason his father was absent? But no! surely the joy at the proof of his innocence would overcome any resentment he might feel at his secret engagement.