THE TRIAL. 113

Mr. Sparr’s speech was,’ resumed Jonas.
“But, by the way, he said something about
that. ‘It is true,’ he went on, ‘that my
client unfortunately did not make correct
statements at Mr. Case’s, and I am sorry for
it. It would have been better for him to
have told the truth. But if we admit that
he prevaricated there — ”

“He did not prevaricate,” interrupted
Rollo, again; “he tolda downright lie.”

“Admitting that he prevaricated,’” con-
tinued Jonas, without regarcing what Rollo
said, ‘that does not prove that he stole the
spoons. He may have been confused or
frightened at being charged with theft, and
so been betrayed into falsehood: and al-
though falsehood is very wrong, you must
remember, gentlemen, that he is not on his
trial now for telling a lie, but for stealing
some spoons, and you must not declare him
guilty unless it is clearly proved that he did
actually commit that very act.’ ” |

‘‘ And what did the jury decide?” asked
Rollo.

‘‘O, you will hear presently. The charge
comes before that.”

“The charge?” repeated Rollo,

19*