Tom at the Trial

Weeks passed. The trial of Muff Potter for the murder of Dr. Robinson began. The evidence against him seemed strong. Tom followed the trial every day, sick with guilt.

On the last day, Tom sent word to Potter's lawyer that he wanted to speak. He was called to the stand.

The courtroom went completely silent as Tom told everything — the midnight visit to the graveyard, the argument, the fight, and the moment when Injun Joe stabbed the doctor.

At the sound of his name, Injun Joe leaped through the nearest open window and escaped before anyone could stop him.

The court was in uproar. Muff Potter was free. Tom was celebrated as a hero across the whole town. But every night he dreamed of Injun Joe's face at the window, and he was afraid.