idence rather than upon her own
feelings, and that evidence is much stronger against me, Paul, than you
have any idea of. Come into my study, and I will tell you the whole
story."

And Paul followed him thither.

CHAPTER XXXIV.

UPON CHARGE OF MURDER.

Some hours later in that day Colonel Thornton was sitting, in his
capacity of police magistrate, in his office at C----. The room was
occupied by about a dozen persons, men and women, black and white. He
had just got through with one or two petty cases of debt or theft, and
had up before him a poor, half-starved "White Herring," charged with
sheep-stealing, when the door opened and a young girl, closely veiled,
entered and took a seat in the farthest corner from the crowd. The case
of the poor man was soon disposed of--the evidence was not positive--the
compassionate magistrate leaned to the side of mercy, and the man was
discharged, and went home most probably to dine upon mutton. This being
the last case, the magistrate arose and ordered the room to be cleared
of all who had no further business with him.

When the loungers had left the police office the young girl came
forward, stood before the magistrate, and raised her veil, revealing the
features of Miriam.

"Good-morning, Miss Shields," said Colonel Thornton; and neither the
countenance nor manner of this suave and stately gentleman of the old
school revealed the astonishment he really felt on seeing the young lady
in such a place. He arose and courteously placed her a chair, reseated
himself, and turned toward her and respectfully awaited her
communication.

"Colonel Thornton, you remember Miss Mayfield, and the manner of her
death, that made some stir here about seven years ago?"

The face of the old gentleman suddenly grew darkened and slightly
convulsed, as the face of the sea when clouds and wind pass over it.

"Yes, young lady, I remember."

"I have come to denounce her murderer."

Colonel Thornton took up his pen, and drew toward him a blank form of a
writ, and sat looking toward her; and waiting for her further words.

Her bosom heaved, her face worked, her voice was choked and unnatural,
as she said:

"You will please to issue a warrant for the arrest of Thurston
Willcoxen."

Colonel Thornton laid down his pen, arose from his seat, and took her
hand and gazed upon her with an expression of blended surprise and
compassion.

"My dear young lady, you are not very well. May I inquir