_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._

* * * * *

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