Chapter 27
Over the next few days, the jury sent out two notes to the judge to say they were having trouble reaching a verdict. Both Pat and the DA knew that meant a possible hung jury. But neither attorney would guess what that meant for the outcome. The judge told them to keep trying.
Abbey stayed in the hospital for two nights while the doctors worked to get her blood pressure under control. Her headache never truly went away but her blood pressure was finally under control. At least for now.
On the fifth day of deliberation, she returned to the courtroom to wait. Millie and Robert both were worried about her, but Abbey insisted that she had to be back in the courtroom.
"Abbey, you should really be at home resting."
"I can't, Millie. I have to stay here in case the jury reaches a decision."
"I'm sure the judge will give you time to get back here from the farm. Please. You just spent two nights in the hospital and I'm sure you don't feel well.
"I don't. But I'm staying until I know what the jury decided. It has to be soon. Pat told me the longer they stay out the more likely I'll be found not guilty. It's obvious that they are having a tough time reaching a decision."
"I still think you ought to be resting at home. But it's obvious I'm not going to change your mind. You know something Abbey?"
"What?"
"You're stubborn. When you make a decision you stay with it."
Softly, Abbey replied. "I know , Millie. I know only too well."
Later in the afternoon the judge called all parties back to the courtroom.
"Ms. Sawyer, Mr. Short, I have a note from the jury foreman saying they have reached a verdict. Is your client healthy enough for me to bring them in?"
Pat reached over and lightly touched Abbey's arm. Abbey shook her head yes.
"Yes, your Honor. She's ready."
"Then, please bring the jury in."
The jury filed in.
Abbey tried to read their faces but they were all blank.
Pat just waited. What was done was done. Now they would know what the jury thought of Abbey's actions.
"Mr. Foreman, do you have a verdict?"
"We do, your Honor."
"Bailiff, will you please bring the paper to me?"
Judge Adams read the verdict and handed it back to the Bailiff.
"Will the defendant please rise?"
Trembling, Abbey stood up next to Pat. No one in the gallery dared breathe.
"Mr. Foreman, what is your verdict?"
"Your Honor, in the case of Abigail Bartlet versus the State of New Hampshire, we the jury find the defendant..."