THE WOODVILLE CASE.

Star (Christchurch), Issue 7427, 23 November 1892, Page 3

THE WOODVILLE CASE.

•-: [Peb Pbbss Association.! WOODVILLE, Nov. 23. Dr Menzieß, of the Napier Hospital, was called, and stated that he had examined Mrs Hall previous to her visiting Syms. On the facts stated to have been given in evidence, an illegal operation had been performed, and there could be no other explanation. No medical man would think of doing such a thing. Dr Menzies was cross-examined at length by Mr Edwards, and stated that such a prescription as that produced would, with the ÜBe of an instrument, produce an illegal operation. He was not aware that Mrs Hall was charged with lunacy, and considered her quite capable of taking care of herself. His Worship said when Mrs Hall came before him the medical men who had examined her reported that she was a subject rather for a hospital than for an asylum. Dread of being concerned in a prosecution would account for Mrs Hall's mental anxiety. Mr Haggen, journalist, gave evidence that in investigating the case he was shown by Dr Milne, in the handwriting of accused, a prescription alleged to have been given to Mrs Hall ; also a preparation exhibited in the window of accused's shop. Cross - examined by Mr Edwardß, he said he also received from Dr Devonport a written statement of the case, stating what Mrs Hall told him, and the result of his examination, and that he had reported the matter to the police ; and on this and other enquiries he wrote an article, for which he was imprisoned for libel. The object of the article was to have an enquiry, and he still considered such enquiry necessary. . .