as to Helen's words would stave off any indictment until
Helen was well enough to testify.

"But, Warren, the fact that she was delirious will make it pretty shaky
testimony, won't it?" Mary argued.

"Yes, that's true. But I don't think that they will want to bring an
indictment while Helen is ill. You see, the indictment couldn't be
served anyway, and I think our testimony will convince them there's a
reasonable doubt as to Helen's guilt."

She seemed convinced until the gloomy bulk of the court-house came in
view, when terror rushed back fourfold.

"Oh, Bupps, can't I get out of it?"

"No, dear, it's got to be gone through with. Remember it depends on
you and me."

"But what if they ask me Jim's and Helen's conversation before they
started for the country-club?"

"Tell them as little as possible, but stick to the truth. We know
Helen's innocent and the truth can't hurt her."

We passed Inspector Robinson in the hall down-stairs and the half smile
on his lips irritated me. It was his report to the grand jury that had
stirred things up. He knew only too well that with the sensational
_Sun_ to back him, an indictment would be taken by the public to mean
proven guilt.

At the entrance to the anteroom we found Wicks, his face drawn into
lines of the most acute misery.

"I couldn't 'elp it, sir. They made me come."

"I know it, Wicks. Don't worry! It's a mere formality," I reassured
him.

"I 'ope so, sir, but I don't like it."

"None of us do, Wicks, but it can't be helped," I replied. "Did Annie
come with you?"

"No, sir. Strange to say she wasn't called, sir."

Good! That helped our case some. Mary and I walked into the anteroom
to await our turn. The coroner was already there. Wicks had followed
us and took a seat close by. Mary's face was a study in suppressed
nervousness.

"Couldn't you go in there with me, Bupps?" she asked.

"No, Mary, the grand jury does its work in secret."

A clerk called the coroner and as he passed from the room, Robinson and
Pickering came in. Robinson didn't even glance in my direction, but
Pickering walked over quickly and shook hands.

"Devilish sorry things have taken the turn they have, old man," he said.

"You mean about--my sister?"

"Yes. Robinson seems to think he has all the proof he needs. I wish I
could help you."

"Thanks awfully," I replied.

He had only been seated a few moments when he was called to testify.
As the coroner left