and the jury, and the crowd raised unchecked murmurs of approval. Again the foreman endeavoured to stop the proceedings.
"We regard all this here as very rude conduct to Mr. Greyle," he said angrily. "We're not concerned———"
"Mr. Foreman!" said Petherton. "You are a foolish man—you are interfering with justice. Be warned!—I warn you, if the Coroner doesn't. Mr. Greyle, I must ask you certain questions. Did you see the deceased Bassett Oliver on Sunday last?"
"No!"
"I needn't remind you that you are on your oath. Have you ever met the deceased man in your life?"
"Never!"
"You never met him in America?"
"I may have met him—but not to my recollection. If I did, it was in such a casual fashion that I have completely forgotten all about it."
"Very well—you are on your oath, mind. Where did you live in America, before you succeeded to this estate?"
The Squire's solicitor intervened.
"Don't answer that question!" he said sharply. "Don't answer any more. I object altogether to your line," he went on, angrily, turning to Petherton. "I claim the Coroner's protection for the witness."
"I quite agree," said the Coroner. "All this is absolutely irrelevant. You can stand down," he continued, turning to the Squire. "I will have no more of this—and I will take the full responsibility!"
