Such men generally fall back on some one more positive, and take all their resolutions ready-made.

But here Walter must decide for himself.

For the constable was already calling his name; the court, the spectators, and, most of all, Dr.Small, were waiting for him.

He moved forward mechanically through the dense crowd, Bud following part of the way to whisper, "Tell the truth or go to penitentiary." Walter shook and shivered at this.

The witness with difficulty held up his hand long enough to be sworn.
"Please tell the court," said Bronson, "whether you know anything of the whereabouts of Dr.Small on the night of the robbery at Peter Schroeder's." Small had detected Walter's agitation, and, taking alarm, had edged his way around so as to stand full in Walter's sight, and there, with keen, magnetic eye on the weak orbs of the young man, he was able to assume his old position, and sway the fellow absolutely.
"On the night of the robbery"-- Walter's voice was weak, but he seemed to be reading his answer out of Small's eyes--"on the night of the robbery Dr.Small came home before--" here the witness stopped and shook and shivered again.