that here prevarication would avail you little. For we always have
the truth in the end. Be sure of that."

Baynes and Pitt similarly admitted the accuracy of the Captain's
evidence, whereupon the scarlet figure of the Lord Chief Justice
heaved a sigh of relief.

"This being so, let us get on, in God's name; for we have much to
do." There was now no trace of gentleness in his voice. It was
brisk and rasping, and the lips through which it passed were curved
in scorn. "I take it, Mr. Pollexfen, that the wicked treason of
these three rogues being established - indeed, admitted by them
- there is no more to be said."

Peter Blood's voice rang out crisply, on a note that almost seemed
to contain laughter.

"May it please your lordship, but there's a deal more to be said."

His lordship looked at him, first in blank amazement at his audacity,
then gradually with an expression of dull anger. The scarlet lips
fell into unpleasant, cruel lines that transfigured the whole
countenance.

"How now, rogue? Would you waste our time with idle subterfuge?"

"I would have your lordship and the gentlemen of the jury hear me
on my defence, as your lordship promised that I should be heard."

"Why, so you shall, villain; so you shall." His lordship's voice