The Judge (facetiously). "It has been an afternoon of ballads; we have just heard one very well sung, and it seems to me that the collection would not be complete without Annie Laurie and Tom Bowling." (Much laughter in Court, in which the Learned Judge joins in a high-pitched alto.)
John Bowling admitted that he behaved most oddly, but he did so because the Lion seemed to be behaving strangely. Said he thought the Lion's eyes had gone green; believing that they were real emeralds, he had tried to cut them out with his knife.
Judge. "What! tried to gouge out the Pleasant-Faced Lion's eyes?" (Laughter in Court.)
The Sailor admitted it with contrition.
The Judge. "Such a gentle creature, too! Lal, the Children's friend." (Much laughter in Court.)
His Lordship. "Had you been to the party?" (Renewed laughter.)
Sailor. "No, my Lord, not his, another." (More laughter.)
Counsel here asked witness to relate what exactly happened upon the evening in question.
Sailor. "Well, yer see, governor, I can't say, 'cos I can't remember much about it; yer see, I was tuppence on the can, so to speak."
Judge (interrupting). "I don't understand that expression; is it a term used in the Navy? What does he mean by 'Tuppence on the can'?"