The usual formalities were gone through, and when the foreman of the jury stood up every neck was craned forward, and every ear was on the alert to catch the words that fell from his lips. The prisoner flushed a little and then grew pale as death, giving a quick, nervous glance at the quiet figure in black, of which he could just catch a glimpse. Then came the verdict, sharp and decisive, "NOT GUILTY." On hearing this a cheer went up from everyone in the court, so strong was the sympathy with Brian. In vain the crier of the Court yelled, "Order!" until he was red in the face. In vain the judge threatened to commit all present for contempt of court--his voice being inaudible, it did not matter much--the enthusiasm could not be restrained, and it was five minutes before order was obtained. The judge, having recovered his composure, delivered his judgment, and discharged the prisoner, in accordance with the verdict. Calton had won many cases, but it is questionable if he had ever heard a verdict which gave him so much satisfaction as that which proclaimed Fitzgerald innocent. And Brian, stepping down from the dock a free man, passed through a crowd of congratulating friends to a small room off the Court, where a woman was waiting for him--a woman who clung round his neck, and sobbed out-- "My darling! My darling! I knew that God would save you." CHAPTER XX. THE "ARGUS" GIVES ITS OPINION. The morning after the trial was concluded the following article in reference to the matter appeared in the ARGUS:--