# The Verdict of the Jury explained — The Mystery of a Hansom Cab

> Chapter companion for The Mystery of a Hansom Cab by Fergus Hume.

## What happens

In a crowded courtroom, Sal Rawlins appears to testify, leading to Brian Fitzgerald's acquittal for murder. The jury returns a verdict of 'Not guilty,' and Brian is freed, embraced by Madge Frettlby.

## Themes in this chapter

### Justice and Injustice

The verdict of 'Not guilty' highlights the theme of justice prevailing through the revelation of truth.

### Secrecy and Deception

The hidden alibi and the secret identity of the letter writer are central to the defense.

## Character check-ins

### Brian Fitzgerald

The prisoner, acquitted after Sal Rawlins' testimony proves his alibi.

### Madge Frettlby

Waits anxiously in court; embraces Brian after his acquittal.

### Duncan Calton

Defense lawyer who presents the alibi and secures Fitzgerald's acquittal.

### Sal Rawlins

Key witness who testifies that Fitzgerald was with her at the time of the murder.

### Felix Rolleston

Friend of Fitzgerald, testifies about his aversion to rings; proposes to Julia Featherweight.

### Albert Dendy

Watchmaker who testifies that he corrected the kitchen clock, establishing the time discrepancy.

## Key lines

> Knew he was innocent, don't you know... Fitzgerald's too jolly good-looking a fellow, and all that sort of thing, to commit murder.

Felix Rolleston claims he always believed Fitzgerald was innocent because he was too handsome to be a murderer.

_Felix's flippant reasoning contrasts with the serious nature of the trial._

> Not guilty.

The jury's verdict declares Brian Fitzgerald innocent of the murder charge.

_The pivotal moment of the chapter, leading to Fitzgerald's release._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_of_a_hansom_cab_se/chapters/xix-the-verdict-of-the-jury
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_of_a_hansom_cab_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/the_mystery_of_a_hansom_cab_se/chapters