Counsel.--"In what cases do you think, Mr. Woodyard, a more favourable result might be anticipated?"
Witness.--"In cases of idiots, of atheists, and of young lawyers: that is to say, where the brain is soft, is wanting, or is wrong placed."
Counsel for the defence, laughing.--"We shall decline to cross-examine this witness;" and, without moving a muscle of his face, Mr. Woodyard was about to quit the box, when the judge exclaimed in a severe tone, "The witness will do well to remember, that to give evidence in a court of justice is a serious matter."
"I am perfectly serious, my lord," replied the surgeon, turning full upon him; "I am well aware that none but judges and queen's counsel at the lowest, are permitted to play the fool in such places as this."
"I have a great mind to commit you, Sir," thundered the judge, bending his brows upon him.
"In so doing, my lord, you would commit yourself," said Mr. Woodyard; and without waiting for the falling of the storm, he hurried out of the court. The judge hesitated. The judge was angry, but he saw that the trial was likely to be long. He did not like interludes; and Mr. Woodyard escaped.
Michael Burwash was then placed in the box, and deposed to all the facts which had been proved by the other witnesses who had accompanied Mr. Tracy to the tool-house on the night of the murder. He also stated that he had been sent to ask Sandes for the key; and in addition to the evidence of the others, he said he had seen the gentleman who was murdered cross a corner of the lawn a little after five o'clock, on his way to the spot where the body was afterwards found. The counsel for the defence did not cross-examine him upon any of the points deposed to by others. They were wise men, and let well alone. The first question the junior counsel asked was, "Pray, what did you say to Mr. Sandes when you asked him for the key?"
Witness.--"I told him a man had been found murdered in the grounds, and master did not wish to have the footmarks disturbed."
Counsel.--"Nothing more?"
Witness.--"I might say a word or two more."