Final answer:
Atticus suggests that Bob Ewell, Mayella's father, beat her, as presented in the novel 'To Kill a Mockingbird,' based on the evidence of her injuries corresponding with a left-handed assailant.
Step-by-step explanation:
In Harper Lee's novel To Kill a Mockingbird, Atticus Finch suggests that Mayella Ewell was beaten by her father, Bob Ewell. Atticus presents the case that Bob's left-handedness corresponds with Mayella's injuries, which are predominantly on the right side of her face, indicating that a left-handed person inflicted the wounds. This stands in contrast to the accusation against Tom Robinson, who is right-handed and has a disabled left arm, making it highly improbable for him to have caused those specific injuries to Mayella.