"I know Ned for a man incapable of such a thing.

I am ready to swear that he could not have done it." "I see: evidence as to character." He sank back into his chair and thoughtfully stirred his chocolate.

"It may weigh with the court.

But I am not the court, and my mere opinions can do nothing for Ned Tremayne." Her ladyship looked at him wildly.

"The court ?" she cried.