Then a few more hurried words passed between the lawyers; but further conversation was rendered impossible by the impatience and irritability of the judge.
‘What is the meaning of this interruption? It is not to be tolerated. How much longer, may I ask, brother Netherpoint, do you propose to occupy the time of the court? If you have nothing further to bring forward I must beg of you to sit down.’
‘Very important intelligence, m’lud, has arrived; evidence which will probably change the whole complexion of the case. We have just heard of a witness whom I shall require to call—’
‘Is he in attendance?’
‘No, m’lud.’
‘Then he ought to be. We cannot have the time of the court wasted any more. You have had plenty of opportunities; if you lose them it is your own affair.’
‘This witness has only just been heard of, m’lud—’
‘Psha! I shall insist upon your proceeding with the case.’