First, attention is called to the case by Counsel
for the Prosecution rising early in the sitting and asking his
Lordship if he might mention the case of WILLIAM HOHENZOLLERN, next
on his Lordship's list.
"William who?" asks the Clerk of Assize.
"WILLIAM HOHENZOLLERN," answers counsel: "H-O-H-E-N-Z-O-double
L-E-R-N."
A titter is heard at the idea of a man going about with a name like
that. His Lordship, regarding it as a nuisance rather than a joke,
threatens to have the court cleared. A juryman in waiting in the
gallery seizes the opportunity to ask, if anyone is to be turned
out, might it be himself.
Counsel goes on to mention the case. "A complicated case of false
pretences, my Lord----," he begins. But his solicitor plucks at his
gown and points out to him that he is confusing his briefs. Counsel
apologises to the Court and asks leave to refresh his memory. In a
passionate whisper to his solicitor he asks who is this Hohenzollern
man, anyway, and why the devil does he want to be mentioned before
his time? Enlightened, he explains to the Court that the accused
has got some money together for a dock defence and would like an
opportunity to instruct his counsel more fully.
His Lordship refuses a postponement; Hohen-what's-his-name should
have thought of this before.
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