Page:Tales for the farmers' ingle-neuk (1).pdf/5

 5 the impression of his shoe on some new dug ground near the spot where the crime was committed. An accurate drawing of the form and dimensions of that impression has been taken by my friend Mr JOHNSON, and is now in my hand. Our intention is to examine the feet of all who are present, and compare their shoes with this draught, in hopes that this measure may tend to detect the guilty person.’ My eyes were steadily fixed on ROBERT STEWART during this speech, and I observed his face turn pale and red by turns. The marks of guilt were visible, I thought, on his countenance; but when Mr THOMSON ceased speaking, he had recovered himself sufficiently to ex- claim, ‘What good ’ill that do! D’ye think the man that killed the lass wad ha’e the face to come here? or, if he was here, how could you find him out by the sted o’ his foot? A hunder folk may ha’e shoon o’ the same size, and if made by ae shoe- maker, they may be o’ the same shape too. It may mak’ innocent folk suspected, and will do mair ill than good; sae for my part I winna consent till’t. Come, let us be off lads.’ As he spoke, he pulled some of his companions by the arm, and turned to- wards the gate with the intention of making his escape. ‘The first man that leaves the church-yard before he is examined,’ cried