A FASTIDIOUS ATTORNEY.

South Canterbury Times, Issue 2370, 21 October 1880, Page 3

A FASTIDIOUS ATTORNEY.

Something approaching a scene was occasioned in the Dunedin Supreme Court yesterday by Mr John Stamper, a solicitor of the Court, who was called as a witness, objecting to the wording of the oath. The usual form of oath was read, and Mr Stamper declined to he sworn upon it. He did not, he said, know what matters were in issue, and could not swear he would tell the whole truth, when he did not know the whole truth. The oath wanted modifying. Mr Macgregor, who conducting the examination, said—“ Your name is John Stamper?” Mr Stamper—- “ That’s not a. matter in issue.” His Honor—“ Answer the question, sir. You are a solicitor of this Court, and ought to know how to conduct yourself. Mr Stamper (looking towards the Judge)—“l cannot hear a word that is said. I do not want to make difficulties, hut the oath is not right.” llis Honor—‘Vis the witness sworn ? ” Mr Stamper—“.l.will not take that oath, but I will swear to tell the truth so far ns I am asked, so far as the Court will allow me, and so far as I know.” Mr Stout said the witness desired the Scotch form of oath. The,Registrar then asked the witness to swear to tell “the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the -truth,” and to this Mr Stamper added, “so far as I know, and shall be asked,” and then took the oath.—“ Otago Daily Times.” ,