Witness: Then, I must be wrong, and I do. I was told to answer “yes or no.” I meet a few people who are interested in the Drama, having attempted plays as I have. I meet them at rather long but happy intervals.
Mr. Walters: I suppose they would like their plays produced?
Witness: I dare say.
Mr. Walters: Once more I ask you—and do please give a straightforward answer—
Witness: With great respect, I very much resent that.
Mr. Walters: Do you think it would be to your advantage to be a little famous?
Judge: I must interpose, because I don’t think I know any human being in the world who would not think it to his advantage to be rather famous. Also I must remind the Court that two speeches have to be made on both sides, and we are all in high hopes of hanging somebody, and it really ought to be abbreviated if possible. I don’t think anyone can say that the answers of the present witness have been such as in any way to expose him to discredit, but if the barrister examining desires to ask a few more questions, by all means let him do so, and then I think we should pass on as quickly as possible.
Witness: I could achieve very great notoriety if I were hanged.
Judge: Yes: live in hopes.
Mr. Walters (continuing his cross-examination): Datchery is rather a famous person at present?