The Chief Justice: You are not now examining any book—you are merely stating the opinion of another person. You cannot justify one libel by proving that another of the same nature had been written.
Mr. Carlile: It is not proved to be a libel, as yet.
The Chief Justice: I will call it by what name I think proper; but leave it ultimately to be decided by the jury.
Mr. Carlile: You may certainly give it what name you please; but I must defend it to the best of my judgment.
The Chief Justice: I wish you to do so; but I cannot allow the calumny of another person to be introduced as a defence for yours.
Mr. Carlile: I am aware that I need look for nothing from your lordship. I stand alone, unsupported, the array is against me. Sir W. Drummond's work is only a repetition of what may be found in the Old and New Testament. He quotes those works and reasons on them, and he has a right to do so.
Mr. Carlile was proceeding with the passage which had just been objected to, when Mr. Gurney requested his lordship's interference.
Mr. Carlile: You have nothing to do in this cause.
Mr. Gurney: I have the honor of assisting the Attorney-General.
The Chief Justice: I have told you, that you cannot justify one calumny by introducing another.