ermined to drive on at
his best with a task, now wore a preoccupied expression. The prisoner
whined a question; Steele did not answer, and some one bustled the man
out. Having brought his volumes together in a little pile, Steele
absently separated them again; at the same time Sir Charles and his
party walked toward the bench. They were met by his lordship and
cordially greeted.

"A privilege, Sir Charles, to meet one we have heard of so often, in the
antipodes."

"Thank you. His lordship, Judge Beeson, m'dear, whose decisions--"

"Allow me to congratulate you, sir!" The enthusiastic voice was that of
Captain Forsythe, addressing John Steele. "Your cross-examination was
masterly; had you been in a certain other case, years ago, when the
evidence of that very person on the stand to-day--in the main--convicted
a man of murder, I fancy the result then would have been different!"

John Steele seemed not to hear; his eyes were turned toward the
beautiful girl. She was standing quite close to him now; he could detect
the fragrance of the violets she wore, a fresh sweet smell so welcome in
that close, musty atmosphere.

"My niece, your Lordship, Miss Wray."

Steele saw her bow and heard her speak to that august court personage;
then as the latter, after further brief talk, hurried away--

"Sir Charles, let me present to you Mr. Steele," said Captain Forsythe.
"Lady Wray--"

"Happy to know you, sir," said the governor heartily.

"Miss Jocelyn Wray," added the military man, "who," with a laugh,
"experienced some doubts about a visit of this kind being conducive to
pleasure!"

John Steele took the small gloved hand she gave him; her eyes were very
bright.

"I enjoyed--I don't mean that--I am so glad I came," said the girl. "And
heard you!" she added.

He thanked her in a low tone, looking at her hand as he dropped it.
"You,--you are making England your home?" His voice was singularly
hesitating!

"Yes." She looked at him a little surprised. "At least, for the present!
But how--" she broke off. "I suppose, though, you could tell by my
accent. I've lived nearly all my life in Australia, and--"

Sir Charles, interrupting, reminded them of an appointment; the party
turned. A slender figure inclined itself very slightly toward John
Steele; a voice wished him good morning. The man stood with his hands on
his books; it did not occur to him to accompany her to the door.
Suddenly he looked over his shoulder; at the thre