“Gentlemen,” said he, “this person’s story is true in every particular, and his claims are just. I have nothing further to say.”
Then he walked quietly to his chair and sat down. It was indeed his hour of victory.
But Cudby sprang to the edge of the platform.
“At least you will admit publicly that you have no proof. It was your word against Mr. Vellacot’s.”
“Yes, I’ll admit that,” said Burke.
“You damned fool,” growled Wickens.
The drama was over. A gasp of amazement, incredulity, wonder, rose from the audience. What had happened had been too remote, too impersonal to them to create riot. They broke into a surging roar of talk, each questioning and discussing with his neighbour. Many began to leave the hall.
Jasper looked up at Sparling, who stood stupefied, unable to grapple with t
