During this time the accused has gone up to the table on which the objects are lying. He wraps his handkerchief around the ramrod, slips it into one of the barrels, draws it out again, and shows that it is hardly soiled.
The whole audience is in a state of great excitement.
P.—Do the same thing to the other barrel.
The accused does it. The handkerchief remains clean.
P.—You see, and still you have told us that you had burnt, perhaps, a dozen cartridges to light your cigars. But the prosecution had foreseen this objection, and they are prepared to meet it. Sheriff, bring in the witness, Maucroy.
Our readers all know this gentleman, whose beautiful collection of weapons, sporting-articles, and fishing-tackle, is one of the ornaments of our great Square. He is dressed up, and without hesitation takes the required oath.
P.—Repeat your deposition with regard to this gun.
WITNESS.—It is an excellent gun, and very costly: such guns are not made in France, where people are too economical.
At this answer the whole audience laughs. M. Maucroy is not exactly famous for cheap bargains. Even some of the jurymen can hardly control their laughter.
P.—Never mind your reflections on that object. Tell us only what you know about the peculiarities of this gun.