rom
yourself."

"I will, madam."

"And, Mary, if you think it advisable, you can remain in town for two or
three days; but pray write to me every day."

"I will, madam."

"Let me know your address, as I may wish to say something to you when I
know what has been done."

"I will, madam."

"And now you had better go to bed, Mary, for you must be tired; indeed,
you look very fatigued, my poor girl; I need not caution you not to say
anything to any of the servants; good night."

Mary threw herself on the bed, she was indeed worn out with anxiety and
grief; at last she slept. The next morning she was on her way to town,
having, in reply to the curiosity of the servants, stated that the cause
of her journey was the dangerous illness of her brother.

As soon as she arrived in London, Mary drove to the chambers of the
lawyer, whose direction she had obtained from the Exeter gaoler's wife;
he was at home, and after waiting a short time, she was ushered by the
clerk into his presence.

"What can I do for you, young lady?" inquired Mr Trevor, with some
surprise: "it is not often that the den of a lawyer has such a bright
vision to cheer it. Do me the favour to take a chair."

"I am not a young lady, sir," replied Mary; "I have come to you to
request that you will be so kind as to defend my brother, who is about
to be tried."

"Your brother! what is he charged with?"

"Murder," replied Mary; "but indeed, sir, he is not guilty," she
continued, as she burst into tears.

Mr Trevor was not only a clever, but also a kind and considerate man.
He remained silent for some minutes to allow Mary time to recover
herself. When she was more composed, he said--

"What is your brother's name?"

"Joseph Rushbrook."

"Rushbrook! Rushbrook! I well remember that name," remarked Mr
Trevor; "strange, the Christian name also the same! it is singular
certainly. The last time I was concerned for a person of that name, I
was the means of his coming into a large landed property; now I am
requested to defend one of the same name accused of murder."

Mary was astonished at this observation of Mr Trevor's, but made no
reply.

"Have you the indictment? Where did the murder take place?"

"In Devonshire, sir, many years ago."

"And he is now in Exeter gaol? Come, tell me all the particulars."

Mary told all that she knew, in a very clear and concise manner.

"Now, my good girl," said Mr Trevor, "I must see your brother. In tw