y of the public. People
came from far and near to be present--friends of Mr. Carlyle, friends
of the Hares, friends of the Challoner family, friends of the prisoner,
besides the general public. Colonel Bethel and Mr. Justice Hare had
conspicuous seats.

At a few minutes past nine the judge took his place on the bench, but
not before a rumor had gone through the court--a rumor that seemed to
shake it to its centre, and which people stretched out their necks to
hear--Otway Bethel had turned Queen's evidence, and was to be admitted
as a witness for the crown.

Thin, haggard, pale, looked Francis Levison as he was placed in the
dock. His incarceration had not in any way contributed to his personal
advantages, and there was an ever-recurring expression of dread upon his
countenance not pleasant to look upon. He was dressed in black, old Mrs.
Levison having died, and his diamond ring shone conspicuous still on his
white hand, now whiter than ever. The most eminent counsel were engaged
on both sides.

The testimony of the witnesses already given need not be recapitulated.
The identification of the prisoner with the man Thorn was fully
established--Ebenezer James proved that. Afy proved it, and also that
he, Thorn, was at the cottage that night. Sir Peter Levison's groom was
likewise re-examined. But still there wanted other testimony. Afy was
made to re-assert that Thorn had to go to the cottage for his hat after
leaving her, but that proved nothing, and the conversation, or quarrel
overheard by Mr. Dill was now again, put forward. If this was all the
evidence, people opined that the case for the prosecution would break
down.

"Call Richard Hare" said the counsel for the prosecution.

Those present who knew Mr. Justice Hare, looked up at him, wondering why
he did not stir in answer to his name--wondering at the pallid hue which
overspread his face. Not he, but another came forward--a fair, placid,
gentlemanly young man, with blue eyes, fair hair, and a pleasant
countenance. It was Richard Hare the younger. He had assumed his
original position in life, so far as attire went, and in that, at least,
was a gentleman again. In speech also--with his working dress Richard
had thrown off his working manners.

A strange hubbub arose in court. Richard Hare, the exile--the reported
dead--the man whose life was in jeopardy! The spectators rose with one
accord to get a better view; they stood on tiptoe; they pushed forth
their neck