When questioned as to what he had to say to this, Engel retorted that “it was not true,” as he had not been authorized by any one to propose a plan. Inasmuch as the accusation of Waller failed to make any perceptible impression on Engel’s mind, I decided to see how the presence of another accuser would affect his deportment and answers. Accordingly Ernst Hubner was asked if he would face Engel, and, an answer being given firmly in the affirmative, Engel was again brought back into the office. There were present at this, as well as at the former interview, Furthmann, Whalen, Stift, Schuettler, Hoffman, Loewenstein and Rehm. The moment Engel was brought up by an officer, Assistant State’s Attorney Furthmann asked Hubner if he was acquainted with Engel. Hubner replied, “Yes, I know him.”
Addressing Engel, I said:
“This is Ernst Hubner. He says that he knows you, and he also has made a statement against you.”
Engel replied that he did not know the man, whereupon Hubner reiterated his acquaintanceship, and added:
“Your name is Engel, and you keep a toy-store on Milwaukee Avenue. You made speeches at 58 Clybourn Avenue. I saw and heard you several times. I saw you in a meeting May 3, 9 P.M., at 54 West Lake Street.”
“Engel,” I interrupted, “listen, and I will read you what Hubner said about you.”
Engel assented, and the statement of Hubner, as already given, was read.
“It is false,” replied Engel; “but if that good man says I did say so, then you can believe him. I do not care.”
“Where did you see Engel last?” inquired Furthmann of Hubner.
“I saw him at the meeting held at Greif’s Hall, 54 West Lake Street, where I heard him speak about the revenge circular and his plan, which he said had been adopted by the Northwest Side group. He spoke of the plan as I have heretofore explained in my affidavit to the officers.”