The Judge.--“What is the question, M. Labori?”
M. Labori.--“I am drawing up a motion, and I consider it absolutely
indispensable that the deposition of M. Meyer and the incidents to
which it has given rise should be finished before the next witness
testifies.”
The Judge.--“But ask your question now. It is useless to waste our
time.”
M. Labori.--“Pardon me, _Monsieur le Président_, we must hear first
MM. Couard, Belhomme, and Varinard. It is indispensable to the truth,
and I insist that my motion shall be formally denied before the next
witness testifies. I consider it indispensable from the standpoint of
the defence.”
M. Labori then offered a motion that the court formally acknowledge its
refusal to put to the Esterhazy experts a question that had not been
framed, and order that these experts be heard regarding the interviews
with them.
The court retired, and, returning five minutes later, rendered a decree
refusing to order that the witnesses be heard, on the ground that they
could plead professional secrecy, and that their testimony would only
prolong the trial without useful results.
“Now,” said the judge, “the principle is laid down. Every time that you
insist, the same decree will be rendered. Let that be understood.”