“It might have been better to wait a while,” suggested Mr. Hardy mildly. “Of course, it is entirely in your hands, Mr. Applegate, and I admit the case looks rather bad against Mr. Robinson. But perhaps some more evidence may turn up.”

“What more evidence do we want? The man’s guilty. It’s as plain as the nose on your face. If he wants to return the rest of the jewels and securities I’ll see what can be done toward having the charge reduced⁠—but that’s all.”

“But I can’t return them! I didn’t take them!”

“I suppose you have them hidden safely away by now, hoping to get them when you get out of penitentiary, eh? It’ll be a long time, Robinson⁠—a long time.”