Pray, farmer Carter, inform the court what you know of the prisoner’s life, character, and behaviour.
Carter. I have known the prisoner these several years. He has lived in my house great part of the time. He was always sober—
Court. Never the honester for that. Well, go on.
Carter. Sober, honest, sincere, trusty, and careful. He was one of the best and most faithful friends I ever knew. He has many a time deterred thieves from breaking into my house at night, and murdering me and my family. He never hated nor hurt any body but rogues and night-walkers. He performed a million of good offices for me, for no other recompense than his victuals and lodging; and seemed always happy and contented with what I could afford him, however scanty the provision. He has driven away many a fox that came to steal my geese and turkies; and, for taking care of a flock of sheep, there is not his equal in the county. In short, whenever he dies I shall lose my best friend, my best servant, and most vigilant protector. I am positive that he is as innocent as a babe of the crime charged upon him; for he was with me that whole evening, and supped and slept at home. He was indeed my constant companion, and we were seldom or never asunder. If your worships please, I’ll be bail for him from five pounds to five hundred.
Court. That cannot be: it is not a bailable offence. Have you any thing else to say, Mr. Positive?
Carter. Say? I think I’ve said enough, if it signified any thing.
Bottle. Drag him away out of hearing.
Carter. I will have justice! You, all of ye, deserve hanging more than your prisoner, and you all know it too.
Court. Away with him, constable.—Scum of the earth! Base-born peasant!
[Carter is hauled out of the court, after a stout resistance.]