The Sun. — 1849-04-04 (London, England)

THE STANFIELD-HALL  MURDERS.  TRIAL OF RUSH.  (FROM OUR OWN REPORTER.) NORWICH, TUESDAY.  Before the replrters were admitted this morning the Governor, Mr, Pinson, called them together, an.' expressed a hope that they would keep their penknives, or anythiug which might be made available as a weapon, out of the reach of Rush, stating that he did not ask this  without reason. We understand that during the night the prisoner became exceedingly violent, and vowed revenge towards the witnesses who had given evidence against him. It was, therefore, feared that he might lay violent hands upon his own life if the means were placed within his power, or attack any one within his reach. In consequence of the threats used, and the apparently ungovernable rage which had taken possession of the prisoner, the spikes round the dock were covered, some time before the meeting of the court, with long and stout pieces of wood. The conduct of Rush during the night, we were told, was ferocious in the extreme, and more like that of a demon than a human being. The prisoner (with whom turnkeys have been in the habit of sitting up every night, and who have kept a strict watch over him), however, slept a good deal last night; his violence came on early in the morning. These revelations caused the greatest excitement in the court, which was crowded. Mr. Baron Rolfe took his seat at a quarter to nine o'clock. The jury assembled shortly before. Before the prisoner was brought in the Under-Sheriff stated that a man, then in custody and present, had called out to the jury when leaving their omnibus and entering the Maid's Head, last night, " Gentlemen, I hope you will be merciful to Mr. Rush." Archibald Macdonald, the man referred to, apologised for his conduct, and declared that it was merely addressed to a person whom he knew in the omnibus, and not with any bad intention. Mr. Baron ROLFE said it was extremely important that the jury should not be communicated with before giving their verdict. His conduct was most improper; as, however, he had not sought to injure the prisoner he should discharge him. Rush shortly after entered the dock. We did not notice any change in his appearance. Having carefully arranged his papers, a proceeding which occupied some time, ho applied to be permitted to put a few questions to Howe.  Mr. Baron ROLFE said he did not know whether he ought to allow it, because the evidence was altogether irrelevant—whether innocent or guilty he did not believe it could affect him.  Rush said he was happy to hear this. Mr. Baron ROLFE said, however, it was for the jury to judge. Rush said he only wished to put two or three questions. llowe was called and examined by Rush—Was in the habit of frequenting the " Wheatsheaf " in London. Knew persons in the habit of going there of the name of Durrant and Hythe. Had spoken to the former about the murder. Never said he would go to Norwich and give evidence if his expenses were paid, in order that he might have a lark with his friends in Norwich. Did not say ha would give evidence on either side for 20/. He had said he had been out on the " spree" with the prisoner, which was the case, and that ho had said he " was a jolly good fellow."