to await whatever she might be about to say with the impartial
air of a disinterested judge. Though a stranger myself, my heart
ached for the young woman who was placed so suddenly in such a
painful position, but Gregory Hall apparently lacked any personal
interest in the case.

I felt sure this was not true, that he was not really so
unconcerned as he appeared; but I could not guess why he chose to
assume an impassive mask.

Miss Lloyd had not risen as it was not required of her, and she
sat expectant, but with no sign of nervousness. Mrs. Pierce, her
companion, was simply quivering with agitation. Now and again
she would touch Miss Lloyd's shoulder or hand, or whisper a word
of encouragement, or perhaps wring her own hands in futile
despair.

Of course these demonstrations were of little avail, nor did it
seem as if Florence Lloyd needed assistance or support.

She gave the impression not only of general capability in
managing her own affairs, but of a special strength in an
emergency.

And an emergency it was; for though the two before-mentioned
jurors, who had been intimate friends of her uncle, were
doubtless in sympathy with Miss Lloyd, and though the coroner was
kindly disposed toward her, yet the other jurors took little
pains to conceal their suspicious attitude, and as for Mr.
Parmalee, he was fairly eager with anticipation of the