There was great laughter as Mr. Bumpkin shook his head at the learned counsel for the defence, and thumped one hand upon the ledge in front of him.
“That will do,” said Mr. Newboy, sitting down triumphantly.
Then the counsel for the defence arose, and a titter again went round the Court, and there was a very audible adjustment of persons in preparation for the treat that was to come.
“May the prisoner have a seat, my lord?”
“Oh, certainly,” said his lordship; “let an easy-chair be brought immediately.”
“Now then, Mr. Bumpkin, or whatever your name is, don’t lounge on the desk like that, but just stand up and attend to me. Stand up, sir, and answer my questions,” says Mr. Nimble.
“I be standin’ oop,” said Bumpkin, “and I can answer thee; ax away.”
“Just attend,” said the Judge. “You must not go on like that. You are here to answer questions and not to make speeches. If you wish those gentlemen to believe you, you must conduct yourself in a proper manner. Remember this is a serious charge, and you are upon your oath.”
Poor Bumpkin! Never was there a more friendless position than that of Ignorance in the witness-box.
“Just attend!” repeated Mr. Nimble; this was a favourite expression of his.