The witness of the trespass, who was a "hired hand" of Deacon Gravespeech, was present, and after the cause had been called in due order, was summoned by the deacon (who appeared in proper person) to the stand. He was generally very irascible, a good deal of a bully, rather stupid, and, on the present occasion, particularly drunk.
"Now, Mr. Hicks," said the deacon, respectfully, (knowing his man,) after he had 'kissed the book,' "now, Mr. Hicks (his name was Joe Hicks, but universally called 'Saucy Joe,') please tell the justice what you know of this transaction."
"Well, squire, I seed 'em!" replied Joe, to this appeal, facing the justice.
"Who?" ejaculated the justice, quickly.
"Who!" answered Joe, "why, who do you spose, but that'ere sour-faced feller, (pointing at Hull,) what looks like a cow swelled on clover, and that 'ere little nimshi, who isn't bigger than my Poll's knitten needle. They was with four female critters."
"Well, what were they about?" asked the deacon.
"What was they about!" (a little angrily,) "you know as well as I do, deacon, for I telled ye all about it at the time."
"Yes, but you must tell the justice."
"Answer, witness!" exclaimed the justice, somewhat sternly.
"Oh! you needn't be flusterfied, Squire Tappit; I knowed ye long afore ye was squire, and drinked with ye, too. For that matter, I stood treat last!"