All attention is now directed to the children; they sit pensively, unconscious of the dread fate hanging over them.  “What can this testimony be?” rings in whispers about the court-room.  Some deep intrigue is going on; it is some unforeseen movement of the slave-dealers, not comprehended by the spectators.  Can the bonƒ-fide creditors be implicated?  Even Mr. Scranton feels that his knowledge of the philosophy of slave power is completely at fault.

“Now, your honour, and gentlemen of the jury,” says the gentleman of the prosecution, “I am fully aware of the painful suspense in which this case has kept the court, the jury, and the very respectable persons I see assembled; but, notwithstanding the respectability and well-known position of my clients and witnesses, the defence in this case has succeeded in expunging the testimony, and compelling us to bring forward such proof as cannot be impeached.”  Here the legal gentleman draws from his pocket a stained and coloured paper, saying, “Will the gentlemen of the jury be kind enough to minutely examine that instrument.”  He passes it to the foreman.

“What is the purport of the instrument?” his honour enquires.

“The bill of sale, your honour.”

Foreman has examined it satisfactorily; passes it to several of his fellows.  All are satisfied.  He returns it to the learned gentleman.  That very important and chivalrous individual throws it upon the table with great self-confidence.

His honour would like to scan over its details.  It is passed to the little fat clerk, and by that gentleman to his honour.  “Very, singularly strong!” his honour says, giving his head a very wise shake.

“When the court gets through,” says the advocate for the defence, rising and placing his hand on the clerk’s desk.

“The gentleman can examine,” replies the court, passing it coldly to the Sheriff, who politely forwards it.

He turns it and turns it; reads it slowly; examines the dates minutely.  “How did the prosecution come in possession of this document?”

His brother of the law objects, “That’s not an admissible question.  If the defence will institute an action against the parties for unlawfully procuring it, we will take great pleasure in showing our hands.  It may be, however, well to say, that Mr. Marston and Mr. Graspum have always been on the most friendly terms; but the former gentleman forgot to take care of this very essential document,” he continues, taking it from the hand of his professional brother, and turning toward the spectators, his countenance glowing with exultation.  The pride of his ambition is served.  The profession has honourably sustained itself through the wonderful abilities of this learned brother, who, holding the paper in his hand, awaits the gracious applause of the assembled spectators.  There is some applause, some murmuring, much whispering.

The court, in coldly measured words, hopes the audience will evince no excitement pro or con.