"Just tell us the truth," he said.

"I shall jot down the facts.

You will sign it, and Watson here can witness it.

Then I could produce your confession at the last extremity to save young McCarthy.

I promise you that I shall not use it unless it is absolutely needed." "It's as well," said the old man; "it's a question whether I shall live to the Assizes, so it matters little to me, but I should wish to spare Alice the shock.