“Signor de Casanova, of Venice, you are condemned to perpetual confinement in the prisons of His Majesty the King of Great Britain.”
“I should like to know, sir, for what crime I am condemned. Would you be kind enough to inform me as to its nature?”
“Your demand is a reasonable one, for with us no one is condemned without knowing the cause of his condemnation. You must know, then, that the accusation (which is supported by two witnesses) charges you with intending to do grievous bodily harm to the person of a pretty girl; and as this pretty girl aforesaid goes in dread of you, the law decrees that you must be kept in prison for the rest of your days.”
“Sir, this accusation is a groundless calumny; to that I will take my oath! It is very possible indeed that the girl may fear my vengeance when she comes to consider her own conduct, but I can assure you that I have had no such designs hitherto, and I don’t think I ever shall.”
“She has two witnesses.”
“Then they are false ones. But may I ask your worship the name of my accuser?”
“Miss Charpillon.”
“I thought as much; but I have never given her aught but proofs of my affection.”
“Then you have no wish to do her any bodily harm?”
“Certainly not.”