“As I was going up stairs, I opened the front door, and stepped out to see what the weather was.” “Did you put on your hat?” “I did not.” “Did you go out again?” “I did not.” The handkerchief and cigar were handed to him, and he identified them as his own. “You heard the testimony of the deputy sheriff. These articles were found in the boat, which must have been the one in which Buckstone and the other person went over to the island. You say they are yours.” “I do--they are mine.” “How came they in the boat?” “I don’t know.” “Can’t you explain this singular circumstance, Mr. Birch?” “I cannot; perhaps Dr. Bilks, who went down upon the Point that night, can.” The doctor looked like an injured man, and there was a suppressed chuckle all over the court-room at his expense. “I am afraid these articles, in their assumed relations, are as unsubstantial as Dr. Bilks’s baby,” said Mr. Darling. The doctor had the good sense to appreciate this palpable joke, though his smile was rather ghastly and unreal. Mr. Lowe pressed the witness to the utmost; but he steadily and firmly denied that he had visited the island with Buckstone, or that he had seen him since his assumed marriage. He tried him on every tack his ingenuity could suggest; but Dick did not vary the breadth of a hair in his statements, and the attorney was compelled to give up in despair. “Truth is mighty, and must prevail.” Truth was Dick’s god, and his devotion was so sincere, that it impressed itself upon all who heard him. It is doubtful if there was a single person in the court-room who did not believe every word he said. There is that in the truth which conquers interest and prejudice; and he who adheres to it cannot help manifesting himself to all who hear him. Dick Birch was not on the island that night. He had not seen Buckstone for nearly a year. Eugene Hungerford scorned himself for the doubts which had grieved his friend; but they were only momentary doubts. This was Eugene’s triumph. He rejoiced in it, even while he was annoyed and disgusted by the heartless exhibition of his family relations. Other witnesses were examined, and Ross Kingman was fully committed to await the action of the grand jury. No one expected any other result; indeed, Mr. Darling intended to waive the examination, and would have done so, if Dick had not protested so strongly against such a course; for he desired the privilege of cross-examining Dr. Bilks. Of course he had a theory, but it had not appeared at the examination. Ross Kingman was borne away to the jail again, and the curious crowd followed the officers out of the court-room. Eugene remained, anxious to take Dick by the hand, and have every dark shadow removed from his path. Dr. Bilks took charge of Mary Kingman, and conducted her to his chaise. “Dick,” said Eugene, as soon as the lawyer was disengaged. “Ah, Hungerford!” “You have made me ashamed of myself.” “Don’t mention it. I don’t blame you.”