Judge Romley shifted his eyes toward Perry Mason.
Mason was on his feet, his manner indignant, his voice booming through the courtroom. “Your Honor, not only do I oppose the motion and object to it, but I characterize the making of it as prejudicial misconduct. I characterize the statements made in regard to that witness as pure propaganda intended for newspaper consumption and comparable in every way with the statement released to the press yesterday that the body of Carl Moar had been recovered!”
Scudder took a deep breath, stood very erect, and said, “Your Honor, the only reason I cannot produce this witness now is that Perry Mason has concealed him. I even have reason to believe that the witness is being concealed against his will.”
Mason jumped to his feet. “Your Honor,” he shouted, “that is the most dastardly accusation which can be made against a practicing attorney. The deputy prosecutor...”
“Just a minute, Mr. Mason,” Judge Romley interrupted, his voice crisp and businesslike. “I wish to ask Mr. Scudder a few questions. Mr. Deputy District Attorney, are you aware of the grave implications attending your statement?”
“I am, your Honor.”
“Are you prepared to substantiate those statements?”
“I am not only prepared to do so, your Honor, but I would welcome the opportunity of doing so. At this time, I cannot produce the evidence which my office hopes to produce at a later date, when criminal action will be taken against the attorney for the defendant, but I can at least produce sufficient evidence to justify your Honor in granting this continuance.”
“And I demand that such proof be produced!” Mason shouted.
Judge Romley said, “Very well, the Court will at this time entertain proof in support of a motion made by the Prosecution that the case of The People versus Anna Moar be continued for forty-eight hours. Proceed with your proof, Mr. Deputy District Attorney.”