The Coroner added that it
was only the duty of the witness to state what he had seen. Opinions were
not permissible as evidence. The facts were in possession of the Court,
and the Court could form its own judgment.
It was clear to everyone that the jury must return a verdict of wilful
murder, and it was equally clear that the evidence was sufficient to fix
suspicion upon Orlando, which must lead to his arrest. Two constables
were in close attendance, and were ready to take charge of the man who,
above all others, or so it was thought, had most reason to wish Mazarine
out of the way. Indeed, Orlando had resigned himself to the situation,
having realized how all the evidence was against him.
Recalling Orlando, the Coroner asked if it was the case that the death of
Mazarine might be an advantage to him in any way. Orlando replied that it
might be an advantage to him, but he was not sure. He added, however,
that if, as the Coroner seemed to suggest, he himself was under
suspicion, it ought to appear to all that to have murdered Mazarine in
the circumstances would have put in jeopardy any possible advantage. That
seemed logical enough, but it was presently pointed out to the Coroner
that the same consideration had existed when Orlando had threatened
Mazarine in the streets of Askatoon.
Presently the Coroner said: "There's a half-breed woman and a Chinaman,
servants of the late Mr.
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