"All Rise" Sludgebuckets voice carried across the crowded court-room and all rose as one. It was not a voice of authority simply one which gave notice and to which the response was automatic.
Judge Tread dressed in long wig and gown entered and slowly sluggishly sat in his chair of office. The assembly returned to their seats and waited in silence.
Nancy mopped at her tearful eyes as she stared at her husband David in the dock, a uniformed policeman either side of him. David had the look of a man who new the outcome, who new the verdict and waited only for the term of sentance.
The Judge spoke slowly and clearly outlinning the charge, that of murder of John, his wife's love. A brutal and callous act with both barrels of a shotgun at close range. He continued that the evidence was substantial and that no other verdict could be reached . David was guilty and would serve 15 years.
David chocked, "15 years" he thought "I might be out in 10. Could be worse"
"Take him down" commanded the Judge and he was led away.
Nancy was still dabbing at her face as she watched him go. He turned and waved, then was gone.
Nancy got up to leave the courtroom and passed a glance at a young well built blond-headed youth of 19 years or perhaps 20. He returned a knowing smile. Nancy tried not to smile she had to see her act out until she was at least clear of the courtroom and the waiting press. She must be seen as the weeping woman who had lost a husband AND her lover. Her other lover would have to wait a day or two before they could celebrate their well thought out and perfectly executed plan.