Madge, sitting with her hands tightly clasped together, began to fear
that her highly-strung nerves would give way.
"My God," she muttered softly to herself; "will this suspense never
end?"
Just then the door opened, and the jury re-entered. The
prisoner was again placed in the dock, and the judge resumed his seat,
this time with the black cap in his pocket, as everyone guessed.
The usual formalities were gone through, and when the foreman of the
jury stood up every neck was craned forward, and every ear was on the
alert to catch the words that fell from his lips. The prisoner flushed
a little and then grew pale as death, giving a quick, nervous glance at
the quiet figure in black, of which he could just catch a glimpse. Then
came the verdict, sharp and decisive, "NOT GUILTY."
On hearing this a cheer went up from everyone in the court, so strong
was the sympathy with Brian.
In vain the crier of the Court yelled, "Order!" until he was red in the
face. In vain the judge threatened to commit all present for contempt
of court--his voice being inaudible, it did not matter much--the
enthusiasm could not be restrained, and it was five minutes before
order was obtained. The judge, having recovered his composure,
delivered his judgment, and discharged the prisoner, in accordance with
the verdict.
Calton had won many cases, but it is questionable if he had ever heard
a verdict which gave him so much satisfaction as that which proclaimed
Fitzgerald innocent.
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