Mary threw herself on the bed, she was indeed worn out with anxiety and grief; at last she slept. The next morning she was on her way to town, having, in reply to the curiosity of the servants, stated that the cause of her journey was the dangerous illness of her brother. As soon as she arrived in London, Mary drove to the chambers of the lawyer, whose direction she had obtained from the Exeter gaoler's wife; he was at home, and after waiting a short time, she was ushered by the clerk into his presence. "What can I do for you, young lady?" inquired Mr Trevor, with some surprise: "it is not often that the den of a lawyer has such a bright vision to cheer it. Do me the favour to take a chair." "I am not a young lady, sir," replied Mary; "I have come to you to request that you will be so kind as to defend my brother, who is about to be tried." "Your brother! what is he charged with?" "Murder," replied Mary; "but indeed, sir, he is not guilty," she continued, as she burst into tears. Mr Trevor was not only a clever, but also a kind and considerate man. He remained silent for some minutes to allow Mary time to recover herself. When she was more composed, he said-- "What is your brother's name?" "Joseph Rushbrook." "Rushbrook! Rushbrook! I well remember that name," remarked Mr Trevor; "strange, the Christian name also the same! it is singular certainly. The last time I was concerned for a person of that name, I was the means of his coming into a large landed property; now I am requested to defend one of the same name accused of murder." Mary was astonished at this observation of Mr Trevor's, but made no reply. "Have you the indictment? Where did the murder take place?" "In Devonshire, sir, many years ago." "And he is now in Exeter gaol? Come, tell me all the particulars." Mary told all that she knew, in a very clear and concise manner. "Now, my good girl," said Mr Trevor, "I must see your brother. In two days I shall be down at Exeter. If you write to him, or see him before I do, you must tell him he must trust in his lawyer, and have no reservation, or I shall not be able to do him so much service. Allow me to ask you have you any relations in Yorkshire?" "No, sir, none." "And yet the name and Christian name are exactly the same. It's an odd coincidence! They, however, changed their name, when they came into the property." "Changed the name of Rushbrook, sir!" said Mary, who now thought that she had a clue to Joey's parents. "Yes, changed it to Austin; they live now in Dorsetshire. I mention it because, if interest is required for your brother, and he could prove any relationship, it might be valuable. But, bless me! what is the matter? Smithers," cried Mr Trevor, as he ran and supported Mary, "some water! quick! the girl has fainted!"