The Proposed Arrest of Prince George.

Otago Witness, Issue 2085, 8 February 1894, Page 49

The Proposed Arrest of Prince George.

The following example of sang-froid recently displayed by a well-known journalist would be hard to beat : —

This gentleman was cited to appear as a witness in a case, and waited until his patience was exhausted, when he called out to a friend, who was also in the ante-chamber, that if he were not summoned within five minutes he should go away.

This was overheard by the judge of the court, who happened to be passing, during a temporary adjournment. Addressing the journalist in a passion -of offended dignity, he said :

" You will stay here as long as I see fit to keep you. You appear to be ignorant of the power of the law. Are you aware that if I were to summon Prince George to appear before lue to-morrow, and he refused, I could bave him arrested ? "

With the most innocent air in the world, the journalist replied :

"If I were you, sir, I would not arrest such an important personage, who, in addition to being heir presumptive to the throne of England, is also the Duke of York, and occupies a high position in the navy."

" You don't understand me," said the judge, impatiently. " I said if I chose I "

"Of course, you will do as you please in the matter," remarked the other phlegmatically ; " but to arrest Prince George i 3 a very serious matter."

" I never had the least intention "•

"And besides," said the journalist, "there will be trouble when his Royal Highness the Prince of Wales'learns that you intend to arrest his eldest son."

" Oh, stupid ! " cried the judge. " However, that is your own affair," went on this diabolical journalist. "I am much obliged to you for telling me of your intention. As soon as I am free I shall hurry to the office with the exclusive news that Prince George is to be arrested to-morrow — it is to-morrow you intend arresting him, is it not ?"

But the judge had heard enough. In despair he turned on his heel, and calling out, " Idiot ! Imbecile ! " fled, leaving the journalist standing with a sardonic smile on his lips.