Evening star. [volume] (Washington, D.C.) 1854-1972, 1918-09-08
THE MYSTERY OF THE HA

turn took up some little object from
the desk bside which he was stand
ing and to 1t confided whatever sur
price he felt at this proof Of some
uncommunicated secret shared by
these two, OF which he had not yet be-
come possessed. Then he again looked
up and the glances of the three men
met. Should they attempt to sound
this new mystery of mutual UNDER
standing. to which as yet they had
received no clue? No, the inquest
this woman could stand a close ex-
animation. He would weaken from
despair. she from the candor of her
soul. They would wait. But all, the
tragedy Of 1t! Even these men
hardened by years of contact with
crime were openly moved. II they
needed an excuse, surely they could
find it in the superior abilities and
attainment of the man upon whom
vengeance. And vet, what more des-
countered in the long line Of their
duty? The youth and innocence of
the real victim and the worth Of the
intended one only added to it's
thought which again steeled their
hearts.
Meantime the two upon whom they
now redirected their attention had at
tempted no further speech and made
no further move. She had said no
cede. and he had accepted that no
as Anal. Had this brought him any
relief? Possibly. And she? Had it
had a like effect on her? Hardly.
Though her aspect was one Of calm
resignation, her physical powers were
w. 70 l{n0 This In ifgA1f
alarming, and determined them not
to subject her any longer to an in
terview which might rob her Of all
strength for the morrow. According
1y, the district attorney, addressing
Mr.. Roberts. suggestively remarked:
"Mrs. Taylor is showing fatigue.
Would 1t not be better for you to
say at once, while she is yet In con-
dition to remain with us. whether
you prefer to make q public state
to unfold itself in the ordinary man
ner through the two impending Inc
quests and the busy pen of the re-
porter"
First; am I under arrest? Am to
leave this house,?
mot tonight. An officer will remain
here with you. Tomorrow-after the
inquest, perhaps"
II will make a statement: I will
make 1t now. I wish to be left in
peace tonight, to think and to regret"
Then, turning to her, "Ermentrude, a
woman who has served me and my
family for twenty-five years is at this
very moment in the rear Of the house.
Go to her and let her care for you.
have business NERVOUSNESS of which
l am sure you approve"
Yes, Carleton. And remember that
I shall be put upon my oath tomorrow.
The questions I arm asked I must an
swer-and truthfully," she added, with
look as full Of anguish as inquiry.
II shall be truthful myself" he as
sured her. and again their eyes met.
After while she gave a stumble
backward, which Mr.. Gryce perceiv-
ing, held out his arm and assisted her
from the room.
But once in the hall he felt the
clinch of her fingers digging into his
arm.
rs there no hope?" she whispered.
Yes" he interrupted kindly, but
with the authority given him by his
relations to this case. "You have won
his heart at last, and he speaks truly
when he says that to you and to you
alone can he look for comfort, wher-
ever the action of the law may leave
him."
She shivered; then glowed again
with renewed fire.
Thank you," she said; and they
passed OIL.