The Abbeville press and banner. [volume] (Abbeville, S.C.) 1869-1924, 1895-09-04
-~nat Is MS evIaence,

had mentioned in support Of his accusa'
| ton with two exceptions. he omitted
to mention the .coin-bag which had beer
found in his apartment, and the ter
thousand dollars.
Il am in mortal dSead. This evidence
will hang me, fear, unless you can save
me. You said you could. You told me
you could name the assassin. Will you
10 so? Will you save me, Judith?" in
conclusion, Levi said, earnestly.
Yes; I mean to get you out OF this
difficulty"
I'll not forget you if you do
The time has come when I must re-
veal who the guilty one is. said Judith
They continued to converse for soinii
time, but when Judith finally left hin
Levi was more reassured and hopeful.
judith really believes she knows the
assassin. She will save me. But she
does not even suspect the TRUTH" NUT.
| tered Kredge, when he was alone.
That very morning Paxton had caused
the city to be flooded with notices offer.
ing q reward for any information as to
the whereabouts of Marion Oakburn.
When Judith left Lewis cell and took
her departure from the prison she saw
and read with seeming interest one oi
Paxton's reward notices.
Judith had resolved not to delay in
making the revelation which she be-
lieved would result in exculpating heI
brother, and she proceeded directly to
Paxton's office.
At the detectives Office Paxton him
self, Stanmore and Stuart Harland were
In council when Judith Kredge appeared
At the sight Of the janitor's sister
Paxton anticipated the motive Of her
visit, and he felt an exultant thrill
traverse his nerves.
II am Judith Kredge, as you doubtless
know, and I have something important
to tell about John Oakburn's murder,
said the woman, abruptly.
I'VE shall be glad to receive any in
formation, replied Paxton, calmly.
Stuart Harland was very much ex-
cited, and Stanmore showed his emotion.
Il have always been devoted to Marion
Oakburn, and I have loved her and
served her faithfully for many years.
For her dear sake would cheerfully
make any personal sacrifice" began
Judith.
You loved her so we'll you even con-
sented to take care Of all her money for
her, Paxton commented, sneeringly.
Judith looked frightened, for she had
not suspected Paxton had the knowl-
edge his words implied.
She did not resume her statement un-
til Paxton said:
If you know anything to help your
~ IN 1oin q
der mystery, do not delay in making it
known. assure you Lewis neck is in
danger.
Then Judith continued:
Much as I love Marion, when it
comes to choose between her and my
own flesh and blood, nature rules. Had
not Levi been wrongfully arrested, and
did not circumstances unjustly awaken
suspicion against him, / would not
now betray my dear Marion.
What do you mean, woman?" thun-
dered Stanmore.
Patience! patience!" admonished
Paxton.
Judith Kredge did not heed Stanmore's
excited words.
She continued calmly:
10 Snlelu MdIlOu OdhUuIuJ udNo
kept terrible secret. To save my own
brother I will confess it." She paused,
and there was q moment Of breathless
silence.
Stuart was on his feet, and he seemed
to await the woman's next words with
such anxiety as only one in his situation
could feel. He thought her revelation
might be his own vindication.
How shall I say it? I know who
killed John Oakburn," Judith went on.
Who is the assassin? The name!
the name!" demanded Paxton, eagerly.
Marion Oakburn! She killed her
own father" said the woman.
Stanmore sprang to his feet, and
scarcely knowing what he did in the ex-
citement of the moment he seized Judith
by the arm, as he hissed:
Its lie! an Infamous He!"
You are brave man to insult wom-
an" retorted Judith; Stanmore's face
flushed, and realizing his conduct he re-
leased her.