Petterwester, with great sincerity of manner. Indeed, Mr.
Petterwester has been highly spoken of among the very oldest, most
respectable, and best kind of female society, for his gallantry.
The brother opposite, a small gentleman, with an exceedingly
studious countenance, dressed in shining black, and a profusion of
glossy hair falling upon his shoulders, rises with great legal
calmness, and objects to the manner of procedure, describing it as
contrary to the well-established rules of the bar. The court
interpolates a few remarks, and then intimates that it very
seriously thinks gentlemen better waive the points,--better come to
an understanding to let the lady make her statements! Courtesy
entitles her, as a lady, to every respect and consideration. The
gentlemen, having whispered a few words together, bow assent to the
high functionary's intimation.
Franconia proceeds. She asserts that Hugh Marston (pointing to him)
is her uncle; that she knows little or nothing of his business
affairs, cannot tell why her brother left the country so suddenly;
she knew Clotilda and Ellen Juvarna, mothers of the children. They
never were considered among the property of the plantation. Her
short story is told in touching tones. The learned and gallant
attorney, esteeming it indispensable, puts a question or two as to
whether anything was ever said about selling them in consequence of
certain jealousies. Before the brother can object, she answers them
evasively, and the testimony amounts to just no testimony at all.
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