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bar. Still more did fear and horror distort their countenances when into the witness-box stalked the giant form of Cain. But it was no longer the figure which we have described in the commencement of this narrative; his beard had been removed, and he was pale, wan, and emaciated. His sunken eyes, his hollow cheek, and a short cough, which interrupted his speech, proved that his days were nearly at a close. 'My lord,' said Cain, addressing the judge, 'I am the pirate Cain, and was the captain of the _Avenger_! Still am I free! I come here voluntarily, that I may attest the innocence of that young man! As yet, my hand has not known the manacle, nor my feet the gyves! I am not a prisoner, nor included in the indictment, and at present my evidence is good. None know me in this court, except those whose testimony, as prisoners, is unavailing; and therefore, to save that boy, and only to save him, I demand that I may be sworn.' The oath was administered with more than usual solemnity. 'My lord, and gentlemen of the jury, I have been in court since the commencement of the trial, and I declare that every word which Francisco has uttered in his own defence is true. He is totally innocent of any act of piracy or murder; the packet would, indeed, have proved as much: but in that packet there are secrets which I wished to remain unknown to all but Francisco; and, rather than it should be opened, I have come forward myself. How that young officer discovered that Francisco is his brother I know not; but if he also is the son of Cecilia Templemore, it is true. But the packet will explain all. 'And now, my lords, that my evidence is received, I am content; I have done one good deed before I die, and I surrender myself, as a pirate and a foul murderer, to justice. True, my life is nearly closed--thanks to that villain there; but I prefer that I should meet that death I merit, as an expiation of my many deeds of guilt.' Cain then turned to Hawkhurst, who was close to him, but the mate appeared to be in a state of stupor; he had not recovered from his first terror, and still imagined the appearance of Cain to be supernatural. 'Villain!' exclaimed Cain, putting his mouth close to Hawkhurst's ear; 'doubly d--d villain! thou'lt die like a dog, and unrevenged! The boy is safe, and I'm alive!' 'Art thou really living?' said Hawkhurst, recovering from his fear. 'Yes, living--yes, flesh and blood; feel, wretch! feel this arm,
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