Detective Bob Bridger — page 196: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

DETECTIVE BOB BRIDGER. 189 “TI do, but thatis an unwarranted question to ask their attorney.” “True, but it is understood that nothing which may transpire here to-night is to be brought forth on either side on the witness-stand.”’ “That is understood, eh 2?” 6c Yes. 9 “Give me some insight, then, as to what you are driving at?” ‘‘Suppose you were present with direct evidence show- ing that the prisoner, Videre, had been in company with the dead man on the morning of his death, evidence that he had struck the fatal blow with the sand bag, what would you say then?” ‘It would still be my privilege to defend him; but you can produce no such evidence.” “Tt is believed that we can produce even more direct evidence than that.” *'W hat ?” ‘““A confession of the crime.” ¢é How he ‘By mesmeric influence.” “T protest that-such evidence would be received by no court in Christendom.” “T agree with you there.” “Then why permit this outrageous attempt upon the prisoner ?” “It is done by Detective Fandon, that he may be aided in adducing proof for the State.” “A detective has no right to tamper with a prisoner in custody.” “Jn his efforts to fasten crime, he has a right to approach a prisoner, if given that privilege by the custodian of the prison.” “And I have given my consent,” said the sheriff. “You have then desired my attendance to witness this performance ?” ‘‘To witness the detective’s effort, and since you are assured of your client’s innocence, you certainly have no reason to object.” “JT will not, for I have little faith that the experiment will amount to anything. So proceed.” The deputy led toward the room in which the prisoners were confined, closely followed by the Scotch detective. The door .was softly opened, the Scotch detective per- mitted to enter, and the door closed after him, EOMIGDOOKS:. (Elo) mi