The Court generally. Yes, yes!

Prisoner. Well, I have just done.  And now what say the Jury?  Where are they?

Foreman of the Jury (white with fear).  I am, Sir,—­very pleased to see you, Sir,—­hope you are well, Sir?

Prisoner (condescendingly).  Tol lol.  And now what do you say? am I Guilty or Not Guilty?

Foreman of the Jury. Yes, Sir.  Thank you, Sir.  We will talk it over, Sir—­if you don’t mind, Sir.

Prisoner. I need not tell you that my friends outside take the greatest possible interest in your proceedings.

Foreman (promptly).  Why, yes, Sir!  The fact is we have all had anonymous letters daily, saying that we shall be blown out of house and home if we harm you.

Prisoner (laughing).  Oh, be under no apprehension.  It is merely the circular of my friends.  Only a compilation of hints for the guidance of the Gentlemen of the Jury.

Foreman. Just so, Sir.  We accepted it in that spirit.

Prisoner. You were wise.  Now, Gentlemen, you have surely had time to make up your minds.  Do you find me Guilty or Not Guilty?

Foreman (earnestly).  Why, Not Guilty, to be sure.

Judge. Release the accused!  Sir, you have my congratulations.  Pray accept my distinguished consideration.

Prisoner (coldly).  You are very good.  And now adieu, and off to breakfast with what appetite ye may!

The Entire Court (falling on their knees, and raising their hands in supplication).  Mercy, Sir!  For pity’s sake, mercy!

Ex-Prisoner (fiercely).  Mercy!  What, after I have been arrested!  Mercy! after I have been cast into gaol!

Judge (in tears.) They thought they were right.  They were, doubtless, wrong, but it was to save the remainder of the row of houses!  Can you not consider this a plea for extenuating circumstances?

Ex-Prisoner (sternly).  No.  It was my business, not theirs.  It was I who paid for the dynamite—­not they. (Preparing to leave the Court.) Good bye.  You may hear from me and from my friends!

Judge (following him to the door).  Nay, stay!  See us—­we kneel to you. (To audience.) Kneel, friends, kneel! (Everybody obeys the direction.) One last appeal! (In a voice broken with emotion.) We all have Mothers!

Ex-Prisoner (thunder-stricken).  You all have Mothers!  I knew not this.  I pardon you! [The audience utter shouts of joy, and the Ex-Prisoner extends his hands towards them in the attitude of benediction.  Scene closes in upon this tableaux.

* * * * *

[Illustration:  HESITATION.

Russian Recruiting Sergeant..  “NOW, MY GAY, GALLANT, BUT IMPECUNIOUS LAD, TAKE THE IMPERIAL ROUBLE TO BUY YOURSELF SOME ’BACCY AND THROW IN YOUR LOT ALONG OF US!”]