Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)

Mr. Trevelyan approaches the witness box holding the front of his robe with both hands. “Good morning, Mr. Hastie,” he says. “Let us continue our conversation. I wonder, were you annoyed when Babu Banerjee wrote he wouldn’t receive more of your notes? I believe he called them impertinent.”

What relevance does this have? “I was.”

“Did you think Babu Banerjee impudent?” Mr. Trevelyan asks.

“Yes.” I grip the rail.

Mr. Trevelyan looks at me like I’m a mouse and he’s the cat. “Is Reverend Mr. Chuckerbutty one of your witnesses?”