The Indianapolis journal. [volume] (Indianapolis [Ind.]) 1867-1904, 1898-02-19
SENSATIONS IN COURT.
Arbitrary Rulings by the JudGe-Maj.
EsterhnZy a Witness.

ESterhuZy a Witness.
PARIS, Feb. 1S.-The approaches to the
Assizes Court OF the Seine were crowded
early to-day There was no demonstration
when M. lola, Colonel Picquart, and Major
Esterhazy and M. De Boulencey reached
the court. On the other hand, there was
popular demonstration when Generals Pei
lieux, Roisdeffre, Gonz and Delanne arrived
at noon.
General Boiesdeffre was the first witness.
The presiding Judge read the shorthand re-
port of General Pellieux's statement and
asked the witness what he had to say on
the subject General Boisdeffre replied: 81
confirm fully the authenticity of General
Pellieuxs statement. do not wish to add
a word to it. But, gentlemen of the jury,
you are the nation here, for you represent
it. If the nation has not confidence in the
chiefs of the army let il say so and we are
ready to leave to others the burden of our
responsibility. Gentlemen of the jury you
who represent the nation, pronounce an
opinion"
This address caused a prolonged sensa-
ton.
Yes" exclaimed the general. 'vive
rarmeew (Cheers.)
NJ Laborie said: 81 should like to ques-
ton General Boisdeffre"
You cannot" replied the presiding judge,
addressing M. Laborie.
Il am drawing up formal application to
cross-examine General Boisdeffre," was the
reply.
Very WE'LL" said the judge, ''then 1 will
put my own questions" Turning to Major
Esterhazy, the Judge said: 1T is said that
you are the author of the bordereau. What
have you to answer?"
Firstly" replied the witness, 'I have
statement to make. On shadow of proof
this miserable Matthew Dreyfus has ac-
cused of being guilty of his brothers
crime. have been judged by my peers who
have acquitted me, but to-day l am sum-
moned as a witness SO that he may reac-
cuse me, when l have neither adviser nor
counsel to defend me. l will answer any
questions you put to me, but as for those
people turning to NJ. lola and his counseD
won't reply to them (Sensation)
The judge then turned to NJ. Laborie, in
curing: Have you any questions to ask
Major Esterhazy?"
Il am still drawing up my application
answered NJ. Laborie, land ] shall not ask
any questions until the court has given d
decision upon it,"
Put your questions Immediately" eX-
claimed the judge, "or you will not put
any" (Murmurs.)
Il can say nothing for the moment" re-
piled M: Laborie, but l protest against
Here the presiding Judge interrupted
counsel, eXclaiming: What do you say?
Major Esterhazy resume your seat" There
were prolonged cheers as Major Esterhazy
left the witness stand.
Call another witness" said the judge.
but an usher informed the court that there
were no witnesses in the room reserved for
them.
The Judge suspended the sitting in order
to allow M. Labore to complete his appli-
cation. M. lola and NJ. Laborie during the
interval conversed eagerly together. Their
conversation was accompanied by lively
appealing to heaven and evidently discuss
ing the course to pursue in view of the evil
dent determination OF the judge to curtau
The noise in court was deafening and al
most Undesirable, the prevailing opinion
military fashion. When the session was re-
Sumed M. Laborie presented his exception,
pointing out that the court had refused to
allow him TO question General Boisdeffre
without hearing his question. Counsel pro-
tested against this denial of justice" and
concluded with demanding the recall of
Generals Boisdeffre and Pellieux and Mai
Esterhazy.
The advocate general reminded the court
of his demand that the Dreyfus affair
should not be mentioned, otherwise ne
added he would leave the matter in the
hands of the court. Counsel for NJ lola
retorted: THE generals came into court in
full uniform and wearing their decorations
IN order to make speeches for the prosecu-
The defense" M. Laborie added. lis re-
preached with attempting to secure a re-
vision of the Dreyfus case, but the gen.
erals have harangued against a revision of
the trial of Major Esterhazy, who was ac-
quilted. Let his judges bear the responsi-
bility." CUproar)
Proceeding NJ Laborie alluded to the
MAN suffering on Devils island" adding
though his sufferings, doubtless, do not
interest the men who are bowling at the
back of the courtroom.
Gentlemen of the jury, M. Laborie said,
81 entreat you most earnestly 20 rise above
the emotions of the misled public and to
consider that We perhaps at a turning
point in our history and that your decision
viii have consequences which no one to-
day can measure" prolonged sensation.D
The court then retired 10 deliberate. Dur
ing the suspension of the session there was
a great demonstration in the courtroom in
favor OF General Pellieux. a man who cried
Viva Zoia" was set on, maltreated aud
bundled out Of court.
When the session Was resumed the pre-
siding Judge announced that NJ l.abOrie's
demands for the recall of Generals Bois-
deffre and Peleux were overruled. but that
Major EsteIhazy might be recalled if couT-
sci wished. The major was recalled, took
the stand turned his back on ". lola and
NJ I.aborie, and refused TO answer their
questions.
colonel Picquart was then recalled and