SCENE IN COURT.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume LXXI, Issue LXII, 15 May 1912, Page 3

SCENE IN COURT.

JUDGE AND COUNSEL. BT TBLEGEAPH—PBESB ASSOCIATIONAUCKLAND, May 13. An unusual scene closed the sitting of the Supreme Court to-day. -Mr T. Cotter, K.C., who appeared for the Waihi G.M. Co. in a case in which the company was sued for moneys alleged to be due as Customs duties, pursued a form of cross-examination which xi'ees strongly objected to by Mr Justice l£d wards. During his cross-examination of three witnesses, Mr (Jotter was repeatedly told by the Judge that he was wasting time, and that the case, which was one of a large number,, must be shortened. Mr Cotter said he was quite ready, as the Judge knew, to accept the ruling of the Court, but sought to explain his reasons for putting the questions as he had done. His Honor declined to hear the reasons, and refused also to take clown certain questions and answers which counsel asked him to note. "If you are not satisfied with my notes, Mr Cotter," he said, "you can get somebpdy else to take them." He further told Mr Cotter to put his questions without making speeches about them. Mr Cotter still urged certain questions, but was repeatedly told by the Judge not to interrupt, and finally the barrister was brought to a verbal standstill. "I really must ask your Honor to treat me with common courtesy," he said, and sat down. Mr Cotter then proceeded to pack up his briefs, stating that his intention was to,, conduct his case properly, and that Mr Tunks, who appeared with him, would continue the questions. He then retired to another seat on the bar. Mr C. J. Tunks said he was placed in a most uncomfortable position. He was not prepared to continue examination. His Honor: "The case will be adjourned till 10 o'clock to-morrow, morning! In the meantime counsel will please realise that questions must be asked as direct questions, and not waste so much time."