There was the paper Hanz had signed, setting forth that he possessed the secret of where Kidd's treasure was buried, and bearing the proof that he had sold it for a consideration.
Chapman understood the value of this, and went about the village showing it as a proof that there was at least one man innocent, and that man was himself.

There, too, was the old story that had clung to him through life--that he knew all about Kidd, his father having sailed with him on the Spanish Main.

And there was the expedition up the river, in which he had played so prominent a part.
Chapman well understood the effect these things would have on the minds of the ignorant and superstitious, and he turned them against Hanz with such skill as to completely get the better of him.

In short, he would assert his innocence with so much plausibility that the simple-minded settlers began to believe him the saint he set himself up for, and Hanz the sinner who had got all their money.
Mattie heard this strange declaration made by Hanz against her father with feelings of sorrow and surprise.

She hung down her head and remained silent for some time, for her mind was bewildered with strange and exciting thoughts.