before whose tribunal I am so shortly to appear, in
testimony of the truth of my assertion; and again, in
his presence, do I repeat, every word I have uttered is
true. I did not remove the rope, neither do I know what
is become of it. I admit its disappearance is extraordinary,
but a moment's reflection must satisfy the court I would
not have devised a tale, the falsehood of which could at
once have been detected on an examination such as that
which has just been instituted. When Mr. Lawson left this
room just now, I fully expected he would have found the
rope lying as it had been left. What has become of it,
I repeat, I know not; but in the manner I have stated
did Captain de Haldimar and Donellan cross the ditch. I
have nothing further to add," he concluded once more,
drawing up his fine tall person, the native elegance of
which could not be wholly disguised even in the dress of
a private soldier; "nothing further to disclose. Yet do
I repel with scorn the injurious insinuation against my
fidelity, suggested in these doubts. I am prepared to
meet my death as best may become a soldier, and, let me
add, as best may become a proud and well born gentleman;
but humanity and common justice should at least be accorded
to my memory. I am an unfortunate man, but no traitor."

The members were visibly impressed by the last sentences
of the prisoner. No further question however was asked,
and he was again removed by the escort, who had been
wondering spectators of the scene, to the cell he had so
recently occupied. The room was then cleared of the
witnesses and strangers, the latter comprising nearly