"I am sorry," said Mr. Kent; "to see one who is so evidently a
gentleman and a man of education in such a position."

But there was no shame in the handsome face; none in the proud eyes. He
raised his head with haughty grace and made no reply.

"I can take bail," said Mr, Kent, but the prisoner said, "I have none to
offer."

Then was the good magistrate puzzled. He had no resource but to commit
the young man to take his trial at the Sessions. Yet looking at the
clear, aristocratic face, and the firm, proud lips, he could have sworn
that the prisoner was perfectly innocent of the theft.

He read pride, honesty, loyalty and chivalry in the face, yet there was
nothing left for him to do but to commit him.

He looked very grave as he did so, and then John Smith was taken away by
the policeman. As he left the dock he turned to his accuser, the Count
St. Croix, who stood there with a dark frown on his face; he looked at
him for one moment, then waved his hand, as one who had won a great
victory.

"I have conquered," he said, and the count's sallow face grew pale with
rage,

"Curse you," he said, between his teeth, "I should like to stand with my
foot on your neck."