POWERS OF INVENTIVENESS.
Incidentally, during the trial, a remarkable sidelight was thrown on Ivy Matthew’s powers of invention, and her unscrupulousness in exercising them. The Crown Prosecutor cross-examined Mrs. Ross at some length as to a visit she is supposed to have paid to Ivy Matthews on February 6, in order to “beseech” her not to give evidence against her son. The passage is worth transcribing in full.
“Have you ever discussed anything with Ivy Matthews?” asked Mr. Macindoe, the Crown Prosecutor. “No,” was the answer, “I have only had one conversation with Ivy Matthews in my life,” and question and answer proceeded as follow:—
When was that?—That was the time of the shooting affair. That is some time back.
I am going to remind you of the 6th of February last?—I had no conversation with Ivy Matthews on February 6.
Do you know what day of the week it was?—No, I could not tell you.
Do you know where you were on February 6?—On February 6 I would be home. I have not been out of my home very much since this trouble has been on.
You have been into town since this trouble?—I have only been into town to see my son Colin.
Have you not seen Ivy Matthews since the inquest?—At the inquest, but not since the inquest.
Do you know where Rathdown Street is?—I know Rathdown Street.