CONFESSION OF A JUDGE.

Te Aroha News, Volume VII, Issue 455, 19 March 1890, Page 4

CONFESSION OF A JUDGE.

A sensation was caused in the Supreme Court at Adelaide (says a recent telegram) during the trial of H. E. Dearmer, for shooting Thomas Price. Dearmer was a ne’er-do-well, who had deserted a young and pretty wife, who then became housekeeper to Captain Price, mining manager. Dearmer, vvlio was supposed to be dead, turned up unexpectedly at the front door one morning with a revolver in hand. Captain Price was away, bub young Price sprang forward to protect Airs Dearmer, and was shot in the foot during the struggle. Airs Dearmer at this moment returned to the scene with Captain Price’s revolver in her hand, and wounded her husband slightly. After young Price had given his evidence, defendant’s counsel (Air Anderson) proceeded to cross-examine him. Some fencing took place, and ultimately the counsel asked the witness —“ Are you an atheist?” Witness : “ I need not anewer that.”

Mr Justice Boucaut (from the Bench) : “ What has that to do with it? What is an atheist ?”

Counsel (to witness): “Do you believe in the Riblo ?” His Honor (interrupting) : “ Who does?” (Sensation in Court.) Counsel : “ I hope I do, your Honour.” His Honor : “ Ah, well, the Bishop of Peterborough does nob.” Counsel: “ Oh, well, then, I won’t press it, your Honor.” (Laughter.)