Page:Elizabeth Jordan--Tales of the city room.djvu/21

 The young man at the typewriter looked up quickly at this, but the managing editor's face was impassive.

"She has refused to see reporters or friends," continued the girl. "So far as can be learned, she has not spoken a word since her arrest. Her trial will begin Monday, and she is awaiting it in the prison at Fairview. She is young and handsome, and her family is one of the best in the State. Public sympathy is wholly with her, and everybody says that she will be acquitted."

The managing editor's smile reappeared.

"Good," he said briskly. "I want you to take the first train to Fairview and interview that woman to-morrow morning."

"I'm almost positive she won't talk," murmured Miss Herrick, doubtfully; but even as she spoke the last spark of rebellion died out, and she was planning ways and means.

"It is your business to make her talk," was the encouraging response. "Interview her and write the best story you ever wrote in your life. Every one else has failed. If you are ambitious, here is your chance to