THE SYDNEY DIVORCE CASE.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXXVII, Issue 11541, 28 November 1900, Page 5

THE SYDNEY DIVORCE CASE.

ABIGAIL'S EVIDENCE.

By Telegraph.—Press Association.—

Sydney, November 27. Abigail, who went into the witness-box, gave his version of his dealings with Coogan. He stated that Coogan came to his office and asked if he could be a witness in the Ooningham case. He 'admitted he knew nothing about it, adding, "but you know what I am. All you would have to do would be to put me up to a few points, so that I could not be in a fix on cross-examina-tion." He said he would want a bit out of the case. Abigail told him he would have nothing to do with such a proceeding. Coogan saw him again next evening. He told him he desired to get even with O'Haran for wanting to charge him £10 for getting married during Lent. Witness subsequently went to Coogan's house to see him about another case in which he was acting for Coogan. It was then that the conversation overheard by the four hidden witnesses took place. Coogan brought up the Coningham case, and asked if he could not see some witnesses, saying he was-a Catholic and could get their strength where Abigail could not. They talked over the question of costs and a few other details. He asked Coogan if he could find out certain facts for him. At Coogan's request he made him a memorandum of these facts. Coogan said Abigail would have to change hie name after the case was over or the Romany would shoot him. Abigail, on oath, denied suggesting anyone should give false evidence in regard to O'Haran. He also denied other leading statements contained in the evidence of Coogan and his witnesses. The case was again adjourned. In the course of conversation Abigail told Coogan that he believed Coningham had written a letter to O'Haran threatening to follow him all over the world, and when he struck, would strike deep. O'Haran and a' number of priests were present in Court throughout the proceedings.