BOOK II

THE HOUSE AND THE ROOM


XIII

A BIT OF STEEL


"When are you going to Judge Ostrander's?"

"To-morrow. This is my last free day. So if there is anything for
me to do, do tell me, Mr. Black, and let me get to work at once."

"There is nothing you can do. The matter is hopeless."

"You think so?"

There was misery in the tone, but the seasoned old lawyer, who had
conducted her husband's defence, did not allow his sympathies to
run away with his judgment.

"I certainly do, madam. I told you so the other night, and now,
after a couple of days of thought on the subject, I am obliged to
repeat my assertion. Your own convictions in the matter, and your