Cleek knew--but for the time said nothing--and the crowd had hidden
whoever it was from the common view. He simply motioned Dollops to lay
his burden upon the table, and then spoke once more.
"M' Lud," he said clearly, "may I ask a favour of the court? I
should be obliged if you would call every witness in this matter
here--simultaneously. Set them out in a row, if you will, but call
them _now_.... Thanks."
The judge motioned to the clerk, and through the hushed silence of
the court the dull voice droned out: "Anthony West, William Borkins,
Lester Stark, Gustave Brellier, Miss Antoinette Brellier, Doctor
Bartholomew...." And so on through the whole list. As each name was
called the owner of it came forward and stood in front of the judge's
high desk.
"A most unusual proceeding, sir," said that worthy, again settling the
spectacles upon his nose and frowning down at Cleek; "but, knowing who
you are--"
"I appreciate you Lordship's kindness. Now then, all there?" Cleek
whirled suddenly, and surveyed the strange line.
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