THE CONINGHAM DIVORCE CASE.

Taranaki Daily News, Volume XXXXII, Issue 234, 28 November 1900, Page 3

THE CONINGHAM DIVORCE CASE.

ABIGAIL'S STORY. |PBB PBBSS ASSOOIAIION.J (Received 27, 8.54 p.m.) Sdyney, November 27. Abigail, in the witness box, gave his version of his dealings with Coogan. He stated Coogan came to his office and asked if he could be a witness in the Coningham 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 he would not get in a fix on cross-examination. He said he would want a bit out of the case. Abigail told him he weald have nothing to do with such a proceedings. Coogan saw him again next evening, and told him he desired to get even with. O'Harran for wanting to charge him ten pounds 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 the conversation, which was 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 the strength of them where Abigai, could not. They talked over the question of costs and a few other details. He asked Ceogan if he could find out certain facts for him. At Coogan's request he made him a memorandum of these facts. Coogan said Abagail would have to change his name after the case was over or the Romans would shoot him. Abigail, on hi* oath, denied suggesting that anyone sqould give false evidence with regard to O'Harran. He also denied other leading statements contained in the evidence of Coogan and his witnesses. The case was adjourned. Received 28, 1.10 a.m. Sydney, November 27. In the course of a conversation, Abagail told Coogan he believed Coningham had writtena letter to O'Harran threatening to follow him all over the world, and when he struck he would strike deep. O'Harran and a number of priests were present in Court throughout the proceedings.