“Father above, I am not a murderer, as Thou knowest. I ask forgiveness for the sins that I have committed, for we all sin, though often unintentionally. O Father in Heaven, I ask that the spirit of my dear mother may be allowed to return to earth and watch over me, that her son Cain may not slay Abel. And, O dear Father, I am here for another’s crime, as Thou, blessed Father, knowest. I pray that I may be helped—not to be freed from here until it is proved to the world that I am innocent. I feel my dear mother’s presence near me. Oh, how grateful I am! Now, dear Father, give me help to show the one who has given me so short a time to pray the right way. The time is near when I must decide between life and death. Thou knowest best. I trust Thee to look after me in this hour of need. And, O dear Father, help my brother, that he may know and do the right. Forgive him, Father, and lead him. Go with each of us in our humble way. May we ever feel Thy presence near us. May holy angels hover around us and help and comfort us in this time of need. May we feel their presence. I ask this from a heart filled with faith, hope, and love. Amen.” The trembling voice was silent. The heart of the superior officer went out in sympathy to the poor, abused convict who had the strength to resist temptation, and who could yet forgive his selfish, wicked brother. CHAPTER XV. “THANK GOD, HE IS INNOCENT!” “Well, I have been repaid for this night’s work. I must get back to the office, before I am seen coming from this cell,” said the official. “Good morning, sir.” “Good morning, Pearson. You are looking tired. Have you had a hard night of it?” “Yes; I am trying to unravel a mystery, and I am somewhat worried.” “So am I, Pearson. I am trying to look into the past life of this prisoner, No. 78. I want to see if he has been a bad fellow. I am under the impression that he is not guilty of the crime for which he is being punished; he seems so honest about his past, and he has even given his real name, and that is some proof that he is no crook, or murderer. He would surely deny his name if he were either, and I feel it my duty to look into this whole affair.” “Well, officer, I am under the impression that he has registered under an assumed name—that he is holding back his real name.” “Why have you formed such an impression?” “Well, I have a feeling that he will tell his real name if pressed to do so.” “I will send for him and we can press him for the truth.” Pat’s voice was heard as he approached, saying: “I wonder what this day will bring forth. Here I am, walking to the office. I have a feeling that it is time the ‘pet-fellow’ had a little exercise, and I must be there in case I’m needed.” “There you are, Pat. You are always on hand when you are needed. You may bring No. 78 into the office.”