I was poorly dressed, and I was close to the handkerchiefs.
After one look at me he shouted to the superintendent: 'Shut the door! There is a thief in the shop!' "The door was closed; the lost handkerchief was vainly sought for on the counter and on the floor.

A robbery had been committed; and I was accused of being the thief.
"I will say nothing of what I felt--I will only tell you what happened.
"I was searched, and the handkerchief was discovered on me.

The woman who had stood next to me, on finding herself threatened with discovery, had no doubt contrived to slip the stolen handkerchief into my pocket.
Only an accomplished thief could have escaped detection in that way without my knowledge.

It was useless, in the face of the facts, to declare my innocence.

I had no character to appeal to.