“I don’t, not as the question is asked at the present time. You are, of course, the cross-examiner, and, therefore, have the right to ask leading questions. If you think the conversation is pertinent, frame a question to show that fact.”
Mason, turning to Serle, inquired, “Isn’t it a fact that you told Hazel Stickland to pack her things, and leave town, that you would meet her, give her some money, and explain?”
“Same objection,” Kittering said.
Judge Knox frowned at Perry Mason. “Is it your contention, counselor, that this has anything to do with the crime?”
“Yes,” Perry Mason said. “This girl was a waitress at the Home Kitchen Cafe, and was quite friendly with this witness. On the night of the murder, Serle located Bill Hogarty, before Hogarty went to his apartment. He took Hogarty to the Home Kitchen Cafe for dinner, Hazel Stickland waited on them. The restaurant had two ‘specials’ for dinner that night. One was filet of sole and baked potatoes, the other roast lamb chops, peas, and baked potatoes. Serle and Hogarty had the meat dinner... I have here a menu from that restaurant showing the regular weekly dishes.”
“What time was this?” Judge Knox inquired, puzzled.
“Approximately six o’clock or six-fifteen,” Mason said.
“But this witness had dinner in the apartment with Hogarty the night of the murder,” Judge Knox pointed out. “There seems to be no question of that fact.”
“Look at his face if you think he did,” Mason said.
Kittering was on his feet. “I object to this colloquy between court and counsel, and I object to that statement on the part of counsel. I assign it as prejudicial misconduct.”