When there was a pause in the clamor, Sarah, holding exhibit four said again quietly, "Yes, this is mine."
"This is not one that went to the document examiners, right?" Henry was frantic.
"The witness has just identified document number two of exhibit four," repeated Diana.
As the panel again started to question Sarah, Henry struggled for control. Face blanched, hands compressed into fists so tightly that the nails bit into his palms, he listened powerlessly as Esther got the first question out. "Sarah, how can you be sure that this is yours?"
"Because I recognize the handwriting; I know what I wrote, that is why."
"I'd like to conduct the examination of my own witness, if I may," snapped Diana as the panel broke out in a flurry of questions after Esther's initial one. This angry outburst shocked the panel into silence, temporarily.
In a more relaxed voice, Diana nodded toward them and said, "Thank you. Now, Sarah, have you been pressured in any way to make this identification or have you been promised anything for doing it—by me or any other person? Remember, you are under oath to tell the complete truth."
"No."
"Thank you. I have finished the direct examination of this witness."
"May I see packet C to make sure I understand," said a very flustered Henry Tarbuck.