Up to half-past ten at night the prisoner was behaving with comparative composure, and had taken refreshments when he required them.
The following is a fuller account of the particulars of this examination:—
A few minutes after ten o’clock Peace was assisted out of his cell and placed in an armchair in the corridor where the inquiry was held. He seemed to be exhausted, and sinking into the chair he exclaimed, “Oh, oh!” and leaned his head on his hand. He then looked about with an air of surprise, and exclaimed, groaning deeply, “What are we here for? What is this?”
The Stipendiary (Mr. Welby): This is the preliminary inquiry which is being proceeded with after being adjourned the other day.
Prisoner (groaning again): I am not able to bear it. I ought not to be brought here.
The Stipendiary: Then you must do the best you can. This is only the preliminary inquiry. You are not absolutely obliged to be here—so you must attend as well as you can. You are represented here, and the preliminary inquiry is to be finished to-day.
Prisoner: I wish to God there was something across my shoulders. I am very cold. Oh dear! oh dear! Then am I to be committed to-day?
The Stipendiary: The preliminary inquiry will be finished, and if the evidence is sufficient you will be committed.
Prisoner: I want to have my solicitor here. Oh dear! and I want to call my witnesses.
Mr. Clegg: You will have sufficient time for that; you will have plenty of time to call your witnesses.