Prisoner. Well, my Lord, I should say——
Judge. Not guilty. Quite right, always give yourself the benefit of the doubt. You can't imagine what stupid Jurymen we have sometimes. Quite right to say Not guilty. And now who appears for the prosecution?
Counsel. I do, my Lord, I——
Judge. Glad to see the eminent counsel here, and I know of no one who can better conduct a case. Still, with my learned friend's or rather my learned brother's, I should say the learned Counsel's permission, I will just open for the Crown myself. (Opens for the Crown with brilliant effect. Applause.) No; I cannot allow any demonstration of that sort. By the way (to Counsel for the Prosecution), Have we any witnesses?
Counsel. Yes, my Lord, a Police Sergeant.
Judge. Oh, indeed, I will soon settle him. (Witness enters box and is sworn.) And now, you Sir, I am not going to allow any speeches—so be on your guard. (Examines and cross-examines him.) Have we any more witnesses?
Counsel. No, my Lord—that is our case.
Judge. Quite so. The face of the learned Counsel, who is retained for the defence, is new to me, but if he has no objection, I will open for him.
Counsel. As your Lordship pleases.