Chapter 52
1912, Southampton
“Honorable Judge, gentlemen of the jury, ladies and gentlemen in attendance, I humbly speak before you today on my own behalf. I only ask that you listen with an open mind and not judge me until I am finished. My hope is in the end you will see my situation and plight in a new light, one you may not have considered before.
“I don’t want your pity. The only understanding I need from you is to know I merely want what I think most everybody desires—to be left alone to live my life and keep the company I choose without anyone constantly telling me I am wrong or reminding me I am different. I want to make a good living so I can shelter and feed my family. I want a spouse and children, and I want to do things like go to dinner or attend church without the constant
