Soldier.—What thing?
Pleader.—You know it, is it not?
Soldier.—Hanged if I do!
Pleader.—Don't use vulgar curses; you should not be contemptible towards the Court.
Soldier.—What do ye want, thin?
Pleader.—Did you assault this lady, or not?
Soldier (looking at the lady and breaking out into a horse laugh).—Did ye see me assault this lady?
Pleader.—No, but others did. It was a most indecent and brutal outrage, and you will have at least five years for it.
Soldier.—You are a d———— d————. Why the dickens should I assault that hag? Ax her yeself, ye murdhering thief, and thin git ready (putting himself in attitude).
Pleader (in a dreadful funk, turning to the Magistrate).—I seek your worship's protection of my person and property.
Magistrate.—Chhut, chhut, Mr. Rámrás. What do you mean by indecent assault in this case? That word should not be imported at this stage; it is not in the original plaint.
Pleader.—By the fifth of————
