The Mystery of a Hansom Cab · Chapter
XVII: The Trial explained
The trial of Brian Fitzgerald begins.
What happens
The trial of Brian Fitzgerald begins. Despite extensive searches and rewards, Sal Rawlins remains missing. Madge Frettlby insists on attending the trial, veiled, against her father's wishes. The prosecution presents evidence including a time discrepancy, Dr. Chinston's testimony on chloroform, Gorby's discovery of a glove, and Roger Moreland's account of Whyte's coat being stolen. The defense gains two points: a time discrepancy and the fact that the murderer wore a ring, which Fitzgerald did not. The day ends with the sensational news that Sal Rawlins has returned.
Themes in this chapter
Justice and Injustice
The trial highlights the tension between legal procedure and the risk of convicting an innocent man, with the missing witness threatening a miscarriage of justice.
Love and Sacrifice
Madge's determination to attend the trial despite her father's objections demonstrates her love and sacrifice for Brian.
Secrecy and Deception
The veiled identity of Madge in court and the hidden whereabouts of Sal Rawlins underscore themes of concealment.
Characters to notice
- Brian Fitzgerald
The prisoner on trial for murder; appears pale and worn, feels degraded by being in the dock.
- Duncan Calton
Defense lawyer; works on the case, arranges for Madge to attend the trial, and notes the slender proofs of innocence.
- Madge Frettlby
Attends the trial veiled against her father's wishes; prays for Brian's acquittal.
- Mark Frettlby
Offers a reward for Sal Rawlins; refuses to attend the trial but remains supportive of Brian.
- Sal Rawlins
Missing witness; her return is announced at the end of the chapter.
- Roger Moreland
Testifies about Whyte's coat being stolen and his own intoxication on the night of the murder.
Key passages
“God will not permit such a judicial crime as the murder of an innocent man to be committed.”
Madge believes divine justice will prevent the wrongful execution of an innocent man.
Madge expresses her faith that God will not allow an innocent man to be convicted.
“The hour is darkest before the dawn, you know.”
Calton reassures Madge that hope remains even in the worst moment.
Calton uses a proverb to encourage Madge before the trial.
“Return of the Missing Witness, Sal Rawlins!”
News spreads that Sal Rawlins has come back, surprising everyone.
The chapter ends with the dramatic announcement of Sal Rawlins's return.