'I am in your hands, Jenny,' he kissed her hand again and let it go. 'My sole desire is to be of service. Pray remember, Jenny, that whatever I promise I try to perform. All the service that I can render you in this time of trouble is at your command.' I placed a chair for him and looked to Jenny to begin. She sat down and buried her face in her hands while we all waited. 'My Lord,' she rose at last and continued standing, 'I once told you--at a time when it was impossible to conceal anything from you, that I was originally an Orange Girl at the Theatre where you honoured me frequently by witnessing my humble performances.' 'Say, rather, Jenny, inspired performances.' She bowed her head, like some queen. 'If your Lordship pleases. I also told you that my parents were of the very lowest--so low that one can get no lower.' 'You did.' 'Now, my Lord, I am accused of receiving stolen property in my house, knowing the property to be stolen.' 'Oh! Monstrous! Most monstrous!' 'My accuser is a girl whose sweetheart is now by my evidence and the evidence of others lying in this prison beside me, on a charge of conspiracy. With the girl it is an act of revenge. She would tell you as much. The mob, also in revenge for exposing a most diabolical plot, has wrecked and sacked my mother's house in St. Giles's and my own in Soho Square. They have destroyed all that I possessed. I am therefore ruined. But that is nothing. On the stage we care very little about losing or gaining money. This woman has now brought a charge against me which I blush even to name.' 'You have only to deny the charge, Jenny. There is not a man in London who would doubt the word of the incomparable Jenny Wilmot.' She bowed her head again. 'I would I could think so.' She made as if she would go on; then stopped and hesitated, looking down as if in doubt and shame. 'My Lord, I will put the case to you quite plainly. Mr. Dewberry is of opinion that the result, if the matter is brought before the court will certainly be decided in my favour.' 'I am certain on the point,' said the Attorney. 'I beg your Lordship's pardon for my interruption.' 'Oh! Sir, who has a better right to interrupt?' He turned again to Jenny, whom he devoured with his eyes. Truly if ever any man was in love it was Lord Brockenhurst.