Page:The Rejuvenation Of Miss Semaphore.pdf/236

 leave the precincts of this court she shall be examined. The examination shall be as brief as possible. I suppose she understands the nature of an oath?"

"Of course I do. I understand everything, but really cannot undergo examination now," said Augusta squeakily but crossly. "I do not feel able for it to-day. Some other time I shall have no objection to put your worship in possession of the facts of my compulsory residence with Mrs. Brown. There are also certain circumstances in connection with the workhouse management of infants that I should like to bring before you. At present, however, I must beg leave to retire, and seek that repose I so much need."

"Well, in all my experience," said the magistrate solemnly, never heard or imagined such a case as this; it is quite unprecedented. I really am at a loss how to act. To my mind, the best course is to grant another remand, to admit of the appearance of the child—a—I mean lady, in the witness box. I think what she says is reasonable. Under the extraordinary circumstances, we could barely expect her to give evidence to-day. She must be shaken by