Burgoyne (rising).  Nothing more to be said, gentlemen. (They all rise.)

Judith (rushing to the table).  Oh, you are not going to murder a man like that, without a proper trial—­without thinking of what you are doing—­without—­ (She cannot find words.)

Richard.  Is this how you keep your promise?

Judith.  If I am not to speak, you must.  Defend yourself:  save yourself:  tell them the truth.

Richard (worriedly).  I have told them truth enough to hang me ten times over.  If you say another word you will risk other lives; but you will not save mine.

Burgoyne.  My good lady, our only desire is to save unpleasantness.  What satisfaction would it give you to have a solemn fuss made, with my friend Swindon in a black cap and so forth?  I am sure we are greatly indebted to the admirable tact and gentlemanly feeling shown by your husband.

Judith (throwing the words in his face).  Oh, you are mad.  Is it nothing to you what wicked thing you do if only you do it like a gentleman?  Is it nothing to you whether you are a murderer or not, if only you murder in a red coat? (Desperately) You shall not hang him:  that man is not my husband.

The officers look at one another, and whisper:  some of the Germans asking their neighbors to explain what the woman has said.  Burgoyne, who has been visibly shaken by Judith’s reproach, recovers himself promptly at this new development.  Richard meanwhile raises his voice above the buzz.

Richard.  I appeal to you, gentlemen, to put an end to this.  She will not believe that she cannot save me.  Break up the court.

Burgoyne (in a voice so quiet and firm that it restores silence at once).  One moment, Mr. Anderson.  One moment, gentlemen. (He resumes his seat.  Swindon and the officers follow his example.) Let me understand you clearly, madam.  Do you mean that this gentleman is not your husband, or merely—­I wish to put this with all delicacy—­that you are not his wife?

Judith.  I don’t know what you mean.  I say that he is not my husband—­that my husband has escaped.  This man took his place to save him.  Ask anyone in the town—­send out into the street for the first person you find there, and bring him in as a witness.  He will tell you that the prisoner is not Anthony Anderson.

Burgoyne (quietly, as before).  Sergeant.

Sergeant.  Yes sir.

Burgoyne.  Go out into the street and bring in the first townsman you see there.

Sergeant (making for the door).  Yes sir.

Burgoyne (as the sergeant passes).  The first clean, sober townsman you see.

Sergeant.  Yes Sir. (He goes out.)

Burgoyne.  Sit down, Mr. Anderson—­if I may call you so for the present. (Richard sits down.) Sit down, madam, whilst we wait.  Give the lady a newspaper.