It is nothing less than a confession--a full confession--from
a person whom I had every reason to believe was dead. It is from Lord
Harry Norland."
"We know already," said the Chairman, superior, "the main facts which
you are going to lay before us. We are met to-day in order to discuss
our action in view of these facts. There has been a conspiracy of a
very artful and ingenious character. It has been successful so far
through the action of a woman. By the action of the same woman it is
sought to make restitution. The hand of justice, however--"
"Perhaps," said the lawyer, "you will oblige me by allowing me to read
the letter."
"Pray read it"--the Chairman bowed--"though I do not suppose it will
add to the information we already possess."
"Gentlemen"--the lawyer read--"You will be surprised and pained to
learn that I am not--as you were given to understand--dead; but on the
other hand, living and in the enjoyment of rude health. I see no reason
why my life should not be prolonged to threescore years and ten.
"The claim, therefore, which you sent in to the Royal Unicorn Life
Insurance Company was fraudulent. It was the result of a deep-laid
conspiracy. You have been made the innocent accomplice of a great
crime.
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