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 "I'm ready."

The sergeant took a step toward John, drawing a pair of handcuffs from his pocket.

Stella sprang between them, her eyes blazing with rage:

"How dare you enter my house without my permission?"

The sergeant stopped in sheer amazement at the fury of her outburst. Recovering himself with a smile he replied:

"Axin yer pardon m'am, it may be rude, but hit ain't writ in our book of etiquette ter knock at the front door when we're huntin' fer a man charged with murder."

"But he's not guilty!" Stella stormed.

"I believe ye, Miss—ye'd have an easy time with me. But I ain't the Coort!"

"Stella, dear," John pleaded.

"Leave this house!" Stella cried with fury.

"Sure m'am, but yer friend comes wid me," said the sergeant, taking another Step toward John.

"I tell you he's not guilty! It's all a mistake. I'll explain to your commander in the morning."

John smiled in spite of himself.

"Stella dear, this is nonsense. The sergeant is acting under orders, must go at once."

"Ye see, m'am!" said the sergeant with a polite bow.