Prisoner. “The shot was not fired so close; I am convinced of it: professional gentlemen will prove it.”
Judge. “That is what you pretend, because you understand perfectly the consequences of admitting the fact. Your wife was hit with two balls—one striking downwards, to the right, by the nose, the other going horizontally through the cheek, to the left.”
Prisoner. “The contrary will be shown by the witnesses called for the purpose.”
Judge. “IT IS A VERY UNLUCKY COMBINATION FOR YOU that these balls, which went, you say, from the same pistol, should have taken two different directions.”
Prisoner. “I can’t dispute about the various combinations of fire-arms—professional persons will be heard.”
Judge. “According to your statement, your wife said to you, ‘My poor husband, take your pistols.’”
Prisoner. “She did.”
Judge. “In a manner quite distinct.”
Prisoner. “Yes.”
Judge. “So distinct that you did not fancy she was hit?”