is one of the most important methods of defence; as thereby
inaccuracies of statement regarding time, place, etc., are often
detected in criminal prosecutions, which otherwise might remain
undiscovered. To this invaluable privilege of every defendant, I call
your attention once more. Will you cross-question the witness on the
stand?"

Involuntarily her eyes sought those of the witness, and despite his
locked and guarded face, she read there an intimation that vaguely
disquieted her. She knew that the battle with him must yet be fought.

"I waive the right."

"Then, with the consent of the prosecuting counsel, witness is
discharged, subject to recall should the necessities of rebuttal demand
it."

"By agreement with my colleagues, I ask for final discharge, subject to
your Honor's approval."

"If in accordance with their wishes, the request is granted."

The clock on the turret struck one, the hour of adjournment, and ere
recess was declared, Mr. Churchill rose.

"Having now proved by trustworthy and unquestioned witnesses, a dark
array of facts, which no amount of additional testimony could either
strengthen, or controvert, the prosecution here rest their case before
the jury for inspection; and feeling assured that only one conclusion
can result, will call no other witness, unless required in rebuttal."

Desiring to be alone, Beryl had shut out even Sister Serena, and as the
officer locked her into a dark antechamber, adjoining the court-room,
she began to pace the floor. One tall, narrow window, dim with inside
dust, showed her through filmy cobwebs the gray veil of rain falling
ceaselessly outside, darkening the day that seemed a fit type of her
sombre-hued life, drawing swiftly to its close, with no hope of rift in
the clouds, no possibility of sunset glow even to stain its grave. Oh!
to be hidden safely in mother earth--away from the gaping crowd that
thirsted for her blood!--at rest in darkness and in silence; with the
maddening stings of outraged innocence and womanly delicacy stilled
forever. Oh! the coveted peace of lying under the sod, with only
nodding daisies, whispering grasses, crystal chimes of vernal rain,
solemn fugue of wintry winds between her tired, aching eyes and the
fair, eternal heavens! Harrowing days and sleepless, horror-haunted
nights, invincible sappers and miners, had robbed her of strength; and
the uncontrollable shivering that now and then seized her, warned her
that her nerves