London Star - Friday, May 24, 1895
This report was originally published in English. Machine translations may be available in other languages.
WILDE,
CROSS-EXAMINED FOR
THE THIRD TIME,
ADMITS THAT HE WAS ENORMOUSLY
FOND OF PRAISE.
Strong Remarks on Sir Frank Lockwood's
Conduct of the Case for the Crown,
which, Sir Edward Clarke Says, is
Contrary to the Usual
Practice of the
Courts and to the Rules of Common Fairness.
There was a simmer of fresh excitement at the Old Bailey this morning when it became known that Wilde was to give evidence in his own behalf. He arrived at the court soon after ten o'clock in a small pair-horse brougham, accompanied by Lord Douglas of Hawick and the Rev. Stewart Headlam, his sureties. For five munutes he was engaged in close conversation with Mr. Travers Humphreys, his junior counsel. Sir Frank Lockwood and Mr. C. F. Gill were already in consultation over the briefs at the other end of the same bench. Having finished with his counsel, Wilde stood talking with his sureties, facing the witness-box, till Mr. Justice Wills arrived, at half-past ten, when he was called upon to surrender, and took his seat in the corner of the dock, where he at once began to amuse himself with a quill pen and a piece of paper. Sir Edward Clarke having arrived,
There was a simmer of fresh excitement at the Old Bailey this morning when it became known that Wilde was to give evidence in his own behalf. He arrived at the court soon after 10 o'clock in a small pair-horse brougham, accompanied by Lord Douglas of Hawick and the Rev. Stewart Headlam, his sureties. For five minutes he was engaged in close conversation with Mr. Travers Humphreys, his junior counsel. Sir Frank Lockwood and Mr. C. F. Gill were already in consultation over their briefs at the other end of the same bench. Having finished with his counsel, Wilde stood talking with his sureties, facing the witness-box, till Mr. Justice Wills arrived at half-past 10, when he was called upon to surrender, and took hist seat in the corner of the dock, where he at once began to amuse himself with a quill pen and a piece of paper. Sir Edward Clarke having arrived,
The Solicitor-General rose to reopen the controversy of last night as to the withdrawal of the shelley indictments from the jury. He quoted a more recent case of the Queen v. monnier, in which the judge said that no dout it was the practice to warn a nury that they should not convict unless they thought the evidence of an accomplice was corroborated, but he know of no power to withdraw the case from the jury for want of corroborative evidence.
The Solicitor-General rose to re-open the controversy of last night as to the withdrawal of the Shelley indictments from the jury. He quoted a more recent case than those quoted yesterday, the case of the Queen v. Meunier, in which the judge said that no doubt it was the practice to warn a jury that they should not convict unless they thought the evidence of an accomplice was corroborated, but he knew of no power to withdraw the case from the jury for want of corroborative evidence.
His Lordship said he preferred to
ADHERE TO THE COURSE
he had taken as the result of very deliberate consideration. He was willing, however, to reserve the question for the consideration of the Court of Crown Cases Reserved.
His lordship said he preferred to adhere to the course he had taken as the result of very deliberate consideration. He was willing however, to reserve the question for the consideration of the Court of Crown Cases Reserved.
Then Sir Edward Clarked, opening the case for the defence, embarked on one of the finest of the many admirable orations which have been heard from him in this court. "I shall call Mr. Wilde into the witness-box again," he began, "to state on his oath for the third time in this court that there is no truth whatever in those accusations which are made against him, and to face for the third time in this court, and now with a new assailant, that cross-examination which may be administered to him in regard to thesse acocusations. When he has given that evidence and when he has been cross-examined the cse will be complete, and it will be my duty then to address you upon the character of the evidence with which you are asked to deal." But first he had a word to say about the temper of Sir F. Lockwood's conduct of the prosecution. "I had the honor," he said, "to hold the office of Solicitor-General for six years, it is not likely that I, at any place or time, will speak lightly of the responsibilites of that office. But I always look upon the responsibility of a Crown counsel, and especially upon the responsibility of a law officer of the Crown, as a public rather than a private interest or responsibility. He is
A MINISTER OF JUSTICE,
with a responsibility more like the responsibility of a judge than like that of a counsel retained for a particular combatent in the forensic fray." Sir Edward continued that he learned his work in this court from the best example he ever saw of a law officer conducting criminal cases, that great advocate--and great gentleman--Sir John Holker, who 20 years ago was conducting great cases in this court with a determined fairness which he admired, and declared at the time he trusted he might be able at some day to sumlate. While, therefore, he said these things without the least unfriendliness of feeling towards to Solicitor-General, he said them in the hope that he might do something to induce his learned friend to remember what he feared that for a moment yesterday he forgot, that he was here not to try an get a verdict of guilty by any means he may have, but that he was here to lay before the jury for their judgment the facts on which they would be asked to come to a very serious consideration. He (Sir Edward) had now to answer but the remnant of a charge. But as the case had been whittled down the efforts of the prosecution had been redoubled, and instead of facing Mr. Gill, of the tone of whose conduct of the last case he had never for a moment to complain, down had come a law officer of the Crown, armed with the strange and invidious privilege--which he, when Solicitor-General, never once exercised, and would not exercise if ever he filled that distinguished position again--of
On Friday Sir Edward Clarke opened the case for the defence. "I shall call Mr. Wilde into the witness-box again," he began "to state on his oath for the third time in this court that there is no truth whatever in these accusations which are made against him. When he has given that evidence, and when he has been cross-examined, the case will be complete, and it will be my duty then to address you upon the character of the evidence with which you are asked to deal." But first he had a word to say about Sir F. Lockwood's conduct of the prosecution. "I had the honour," he said, "to hold the office of Solicitor-General, which he now holds, for a longer period than any man has held it during the last hundred years, and having been Solicitor-General for six years, it is not likely that I, at any place or time, will speak lightly of the responsibilities of that office. While he said these things without the least unfriendliness of feeling towards the Solicitor-General, he said them in the hope that he might do something to induce his learned friend to remember what he feared that for a moment yesterday he forgot--that he was here not to try and get a verdict of guilty by any means he may have, but that he was here to lay before the jury for their judgment the facts on which they would be asked to come to a very serious consideration. He (Sir Edward) had now to answer but the remnant of a charge. But as the case had been whittled down the efforts of the prosecution had been redoubled, and instead of fearing Mr. Gill, of the tone of whose conduct of the last case he had never for a moment to complain, down had come a law officer of the Crown, armed with the strange and inviduous privilege--which he, when Solicitor-General, never once exercised, and would not exercise if ever he filled that distinguished position again--of
On Friday Sir Edward Clarke opened the case for the defence. "I shall call Mr. Wilde into the witness-box again," he began "to state on his oath for the third time in this court that there is no truth whatever in these accusations which are made against him. When he has given that evidence, and when he has been cross-examined, the case will be complete, and it will be my duty then to address you upon the character of the evidence with which you are asked to deal." But first he had a word to say about Sir F. Lockwood's conduct of the prosecution. "I had the honour," he said, "to hold the office of Solicitor-General, which he now holds, for a longer period than any man has held it during the last hundred years, and having been Solicitor-General for six years, it is not likely that I, at any place or time, will speak lightly of the responsibilities of that office. While he said these things without the least unfriendliness of feeling towards the Solicitor-General, he said them in the hope that he might do something to induce his learned friend to remember what he feared that for a moment yesterday he forgot--that he was here not to try and get a verdict of guilty by any means he may have, but that he was here to lay before the jury for their judgment the facts on which they would be asked to come to a very serious consideration. He (Sir Edward) had now to answer but the remnant of a charge. But as the case had been whittled down the efforts of the prosecution had been redoubled, and instead of fearing Mr. Gill, of the tone of whose conduct of the last case he had never for a moment to complain, down had come a law officer of the Crown, armed with the strange and inviduous privilege--which he, when Solicitor-General, never once exercised, and would not exercise if ever he filled that distinguished position again--of
OVERRIDING THE USUAL PRACTICE
of the court. Whether the defendant called witnesses or not the Solicitor-General enjoyed a right, though why he should enjoy it Sir Edward could not imagine, of the last word with the jury.
of the court. Whether the defendant called witnesses or not the Solicitor-General enjoyed a right though why he should enjoy it Sir Edward could not imagine, of the last word with the jury.
of the court. Whether the defendant called witnesses or not the Solicitor-General enjoyed a right though why he should enjoy it Sir Edward could not imagine, of the last word with the jury.
But for this Sir Edward Clarke might have relied uponn his reading of the evidence given by the defendant at the last trial. Reckoning with this, the defendant, broken as he now is--as anyone who saw him at the first trial must see that he is--by being kept in prison without bail, contrary to practice, and, as Sir Eward believed, contrary to law, would submit himself again to the indignity and pain of going into the witness-box. Unfit as he was after the ordeal he had gone through, he would repeat on oath his denial of the charges which had been made against him.
But for this Sir Edward Clarke might have relied upon his reading of the evidence given by tne defendant at the last trial. Reckoning with this, the defendant, broken as he now is -- as anyone who saw him at the first trial must see that he is -- by being kept in prison without bail, contrary to practice, and, as Sir Edward believed, contrary to law, would submit himself again to the indignity and pain of going into the witness-box. Unfit as he was after the ordeal he had gone through, he would repeat on oath his denial of the charges which had been made against him.
Wilde in the Box.
Wilde was called at ten minutes past eleven, and at Sir Edward Clarke's request was allowed to be seated in the witness-box. Only when he began to speak was the full force of Sir Eward's remarks seen. His voice, at the first trial so full and confident, had become hollow and husky, and he seemed glad to lean over the front of the witness box. He was very briefly, and in very general terms, examined once more as to his friendship with Lady Queensberry and her sons, Lord Queensberry's objections to his friendship with Lord Alfred Douglas, and the incident of the libellous postcard. He described the production of his various plays, and declared that it was for convenience of literary work and to be near the theatre that he took the chambers at 10, St. James's-place, "Most literary men like to work out of their own house. It is quieter--and better," he added.
Wilde was called at ten minutes past 11, and at Sir Edward Clarke's request was allowed to be seated in the witness-box. Only when he began to speak wast the full force of Sir Edward's remarks seen. His voice, at the first trial so full and confident, had become hollow and husky, and he seemed glad to lean over the front of the witness-box. He was very briefly, and in very general terms, examined once more as to his friendship with Lady Queensberry and her sons, Lord Queensberry's objections to his friendship with Lord Alfred Douglas, and the incident of the libellous post-card. He described the production of his various plays, and declared that it was for convenience of literary work and to be near the theatre that he took the chambers at 10, St. James's-place. "Most literary men like to work out of their own house. It is quieter--and better," he added.
Wilde was called at then minutes past eleven, and at Sir Edward Clarke's request was allowed to be seated in the witness-box. His voice--at the first trial so full and confident-had become hollow and husky, and he seemed glad to lean over the front of the witness-box. He was very briefly, and in very general terms, examined once more as to his friendship with Lady Queensberry and her sons, Lord Queensberry's objections to his friendship with Lord Alfred Douglas, and the incident of the libellous postcard. He described the production of his various plays, and declared that it was for convenience of literary work and to be near the theatre that he took the chambers at 10. St. James's-place. "Most literary men like to work out of their own house. It is quieter--and better." He added.
Wilde was called at then minutes past eleven, and at Sir Edward Clarke's request was allowed to be seated in the witness-box. His voice--at the first trial so full and confident-had become hollow and husky, and he seemed glad to lean over the front of the witness-box. He was very briefly, and in very general terms, examined once more as to his friendship with Lady Queensberry and her sons, Lord Queensberry's objections to his friendship with Lord Alfred Douglas, and the incident of the libellous postcard. He described the production of his various plays, and declared that it was for convenience of literary work and to be near the theatre that he took the chambers at 10. St. James's-place. "Most literary men like to work out of their own house. It is quieter--and better." He added.
There was only one more question--"Is there any truth whatever in the accusations made against you in this indictment?"
There was only one more question - "Is there any truth whatever on the accusations made against you in this indictment?"
"None whatever." The reply came with emphasis, and something of the old rotundity.
"None whatever." The reply came with emphasis, and something of the old rotundity.
When Sir Frank
LOCKWOOD ROSE
to cross-examine, the witness also rose. "Don't rise, please, unless you wish," said the Solicitor-General, and the witness replied, "I can hear better." In a few minutes, however, he seemed glad to sink into his chair again. He was first asked about his acquaintance with Lord Alfred Douglas. It began, he said, in 1892. The Marquess first objected in March, 1893.
When Sir Frank Lockwood rose to cross-examine the witness also rose. "Don't rise, please, unless you wish," said the Solicitor-General; and the witness replied, "I can hear better." In a few minutes, however, he seemed glad to sink into his chair again. He was first asked about his acquaintance with Lord Alfred Douglas. It began, he said, in 1892. The Marquis first objected in March, 1893.
When Sir Frank Lockwood rose to cross-examine, the witness also rose. "Don't rise, please, unless you wish," said the Solicitor-General, and the Witness replied, "I can hear better." In a few minutes, however, he seemed glad to sink into his chair again. He was first asked about his acquaintance with Lord Alfred Douglas. It began, he said, in 1892. The Marquis first objected in March, 1893.
When Sir Frank Lockwood rose to cross-examine, the witness also rose. "Don't rise, please, unless you wish," said the Solicitor-General, and the Witness replied, "I can hear better." In a few minutes, however, he seemed glad to sink into his chair again. He was first asked about his acquaintance with Lord Alfred Douglas. It began, he said, in 1892. The Marquis first objected in March, 1893.
Are you sure? - I am very bad about dates. It must have been last year, 1894.
Are you sure? - I am very bad about dates. It must have been last year, 1894.
Where is Lord Alfred Douglas now? - Abroad.
Where? - In Paris. He went there before the last trial. At my own wish.
Where? - In Paris. He went there before the last trial at my own wish.
And the intervention of his father had no effect? - No.
Quoting the two letters about which so much has already been heard, the Solicitor-General asked, "Are these a sample of the syle in which you addressed Lord Alfred Douglas?"
Quoting the two letters about which so much has already been heard, the Solicitor-General asked, "Are these a sample of the style in which you addressed Lord Alfred Douglas?"
"No," replied the witness, "I do not think I should say a sample. No! The letter written from Torquay [the "madness of kissing" letter] was intended to be kind of prose poem in answer to a poem he had written to me in verse. I was written under circumstances of great feeling."
"No," replied the Witness, "I do not think I should say a sample. No ! The letter writing from Torquay (the "madness of kissing" letter) was intended to be a kind of prose poem in answer to a poem he had written to me in verse. It was written under circumstances of great feeling."
Quoting the two letters about which so much has already been heard, the Solicitor-General asked: "Are these a sample of the style in which you addressed Lord Alfred Douglas?"
"No," replied the witness, "I do not think I should say a sample. No! The letter written from Torquay [the 'madness of kissing' letter] was intended to be a kind of prose poem in answer to a poem he had written to me in verse. It was written under circumstances of great feeling."
Asked about his choice of the words "My dear boy" as a mode of address, the witness replied that he adopted them because Lord ALfred Douglas was so much younger than himself. The letter was a
Asked as to his choice of the words "My own dear boy" as a mode of address, the witness replied that he adopted them because Lord Alfred Douglas was so much younger than himself. The letter was a
Asked as to his choice of the words "My own dear boy" as a mode of address, the witness replied that he adopted them because Lord Alfred Douglas was so much younger than himself. The letter was a
FANTASTIC, EXTRAVAGANT WAY
of writing to a young man. As he said at the first trial, it did not seem to be a question of whether a thing was proper or right, but of literary expression.
of writing to a young man. As he said at the first trial, it did not seem to be a question of whether a thing was proper or right, but literary expression.
I did not use the word proper or right. Was it decent? - Oh, decent! Of course. There is nothing indecent in it.
I did not use the word proper or right. Was it decent? - Oh, decent! Of course. There is nothing indecent in it.
Do you think that was a decent way for a man of your age to address a man of his? - It was a beautiful way for an artist to address a young man of culture and charm. Decency does not enter into it.
Do you think that was a decent way for a man of your age to address a man of his? - It was a beautiful way for an artist to address a young man of culture and charm. Decency does not enter into it.
Doesn't it? Do you understand the meaning of the word, sir? - Yes.
Then do you consider that a decent mode of addressing a young man? - I can only give you the same answer, that it is a literary mode of writing what is intended to be a prose poem.
Then I ask you whether you consider it a decent mode of addressing a young man? -I can only give you the same answer. It was a literary mode of writing to another -intended to be a prose poem.
Then I ask you whether you consider it a decent mode of addressing a young man? I can only give you the same answer. It was a literary mode of writing to another intended to be a prose poem.
The witness admitted that the second letter, in which he said Lord Alfred Douglas's last communication was red and yellow wine to him, and concluded with lamentable particulars of the amount of his hotel bill and the statement that he had no money, no credit, and a heart of lead, was a mixture of
The witness admitted that the second letter, in which he said Lord Alfred Douglas's last communication was red and yellow wine to him, and concluded with lamentable particulars of the amount of his hotel bill and the statement that he had no money, no credit, and a heart of lead, was a mixture of poetry and prose, and was not intended to be any kind of sonnet.
POETRY AND PROSE
and was not intended to be any kind of sonnet.
Asked what the charge was which Lord Queensberry made against him, he quoted the words on the libellous postcard, after a little fencing with the Solicitor-General. Between Lord Queensberry's committal and the first trial the witness and Lord Alfred Douglas went abroad together for about a week. Before the trial he saw Lord Queensberry's plea of justification, which alleged all the misconduct of which evidence has since been given, besides making charges which have not been heard because they reger to occurrences in Paris.
Asked what the charge was which Lord Queensberry made against him, he quoted the words of the libellous postcard, alter a little fencing with the Solicitor-General. Between Lord Queensberry's committal and the first trial the witness and Lord Alfred Douglas went abroad together for about a week. Before the trial he saw Lord Queensberry's plea of justification which alleged all the misconduct of which evidence has since been given, besides making charges which have not been heard because they refer to occurrences in Paris.
Asked what the charge was which Lord Queensberry made against him, he quoted the words on the libellous postcard, after a little fencing with the Solicitor-General. Between Lord Queensberry's plea of justification, which alleged all the misconduct of which evidence has since been given, besides making charges which have not been heard because they refer to occurrences in Paris.
Asked what the charge was which Lord Queensberry made against him, he quoted the words on the libellous postcard, after a little fencing with the Solicitor-General. Between Lord Queensberry's plea of justification, which alleged all the misconduct of which evidence has since been given, besides making charges which have not been heard because they refer to occurrences in Paris.
Did you abandon that prosecution? - It was abandoned by the advice of my counsel.
Did you abandon that prosecution? - It was abandoned by the advice of my counsel.
With your consent? - Yes, I admit it was with my consent, but none of those matters had been entered into. It was entirely about literature, and it was represented to me that I could not get a verdict because of those two letters you have read.
With your consent? - Yes, I admit it was with my consent, but none of those matters had been entered into. It was entirely about literature, and it was represented to me that I could not get a verdict because of these two letters you have read.
Did you abandon that prosecution? It was abandoned by the advice of my counsel.
With your consent? Yes, I admit it was with my consent, but none of those matters had been entered into. It was entirely about literature, and it was represented to me that I could not get a verdict because of those two letters you have read.
Were you not cross-examined as to you knowledge of Taylor and his character? - Yes.
Were you not cross-examined as to your knowledge of Taylor and his character? - Yes.
And as to the establishment he maintained at 13, Little-College-st.? - Yes.
And as to the establishment he maintained at 13, Little College-street? - Yes.
How long had you known Taylor? - I met him first in September, 1892. Yes, I paid visits at his rooms, but I have not been there fore than fice or six times in my life.
How long had you known Taylor? - I met him first in September, 1892. Yes, I paid visits at his rooms, but I have not been there more than five or six times in my life.
Was there any but male society there? - Oh, no, entirely male.
Youths? - Oh, young men.
The witness mentioned Mavor and Schwabe as two fo the young men he met at Taylor's rooms. He said he only went there to
The Witness mentioned Mavor and Schwabe as two of the young men he met at Taylor's rooms. He said he only
The Witness mentioned Mavor and Schwabe as two of the young men he met at Taylor's rooms. He said he only
TEA PARTIES
lasting half an hour or an hour, and he could not, after a lapse of three years, remember whom he met. Then he became petulant. "You ask me to remember whom I met at a tea party three years ago! It is childish! How can I?"
lasting half an hour, and he could not, after a lapse of three years, remember whom he met. Then he became petulant. "You ask me to remember whom I met at a tea party three years ago! It is childish! How can I?"
Did Taylor strike you as being a pleasant companion? - Yes, I thought he was very bright.
Did Taylor strike you as being a pleasant companion? Yes; I thought him very bright.
Did Taylor strike you as being a pleasant companion? - Yes, I thought him very bright.
Did Taylor strike you as being a pleasant companion? Yes; I thought him very bright.
Did you know what his occupation was? - No, I understood that he had none.
Did you know what his occupation was? - No; I understood that he had none.
Had any of those young men any occupation? - Oh, they were young men--singers--I did not ask.
Had any of these young men any occupation? - Oh, they were young men--singers--I did not ask.
He saw nothing remarkable in the furnishing of Taylor's rooms. The windows were curtained, but not obscured. He did not know that Taylor's male friends stayed with him, and shared his bed, he knew it now.
He saw nothing remarkable in the furnishing of Taylor's rooms. The windows were curtained, but not obscured. He did not know that Taylor's male friends stayed with him and shared his bed. He knew it now.
He saw nothing remarkable in the furnishing of Taylor's rooms. The windows were curtained, but not obscured. He did not know that Taylor's male friends stayed with him and shared his bed. He knew it now.
Does that alter your opinion of Taylor? - No, I don't think so. I don't think it is necessary to conclude there was anything criminal. It was unusual. I don't believe anything criminal took place between Taylor and theses boys, and if they were poor and he shared his bed with them it may have been charity.
Does that alter your opinion of Taylor? - No, I don't think so. I don't think it necessary to conclude there was anything criminal. It was unusual. I don't believe anything criminal took place between Taylor and those boys, and if they were poor and he shared his bed with them it may have been charity.
Does that alter your opinion of Taylor? - No, I don't think so. I don't think it necessary to conclude there was anything criminal. It was unusual. I don't believe anything criminal took place between Taylor and those boys, and if they were poor and he shared his bed with them it may have been charity.
Did it shock you that he should have done it? - No, I saw no necessity for being shocked.
Would the knowledge that they habitually shared his bed alter your opinion of Taylor? - No.
Did it shock you that he should have done it? - No, I saw no necessity for being shocked.
Did it shock you that he should have done it? - No, I saw no necessity for being shocked.
Would the knowledge that they habitually shared his bed alter your opinion of Taylor? - No.
Would the knowledge that they habitually shared his bed alter your opinion of Taylor? - No.
Sir Edward Clarke objected to the examination of the witness on his opinions of other people, and the judge upheld his contention, but pointed out that it came too late.
Sir Edward Clarke objected to the examination of the witness on his opinion of other people, and the Judge upheld his contention, but pointed out that it came too late.
Sir Edward Clarke objected to the examination of the witness on his opinion of other people, and the Judge upheld his contention, but pointed out that it came too late.
The witness himself objected to the general character of the question whether he gave presents to the young men he met at Taylor's. He remembered giving a silver cigarette case to Mavor. It cost £4. He gave another to Charles Parker, but he was "afraid it only cost £1."
The witness himself objected to the general character of the question whether he gave presents to the young men he met at Taylor's. He remembered giving a silver cigarette case to Mavor. It cost £4. He gave another to Charles Parker, but he was "afraid it only cost £1."
The witness himself objected to the general character of the question whether he gave presents to the young men he met at Taylor's. He remembered giving a silver cigarette case to Mavor. It cost £4. He gave another to Charles Parker, but he was "afraid it only cost £1."
Silver? - Well, yes. He had a great fancy for giving cigarette cases.
To young men? - Yes. He might have given seven or eight in 1892 and 1893.
Silver? - Well, ye--es. He had a great fancy for giving
CIGARETTE CASES.
To young men? - Yes. He might have given seven or eight in 1892 and 1893.
To young men? - Yes. He might have given seven or eight in 1892 and 1893.
His lordship interposed that a cigarette case conveyed no impression to anyone's mind unless he knew what he meant. The Solicitor-General did not attempt, however, to elucidate the language of cigarette cases. He passed on to ask if the conversation of the young men was literary. No, said the witness, but the fact that he had written a play which was a success seemed to them very wonderful, and he was gratified at their admiration.
His Lordship interposed that a cigarette-case conveyed no impression to anyone's mind unless he knew what he meant. The Solicitor-General did not attempt, however, to elucidate the language of cigarette-cases. He passed on to ask if the conversation of the young men was literary. "No," said the witness; "the fact that he had written a play which was a success seemed to them very wonderful, and he was gratified at their admiration."
His Lordship interposed that a cigarette-case conveyed no impression to anyone's mind unless he knew what he meant. The Solicitor-General did not attempt, however, to elucidate the language of cigarette-cases. He passed on to ask if the conversation of the young men was literary. "No," said the witness; "the fact that he had written a play which was a success seemed to them very wonderful, and he was gratified at their admiration."
The admiration of these boys? - Yes.
The admiration of theses boys? - Yes. I was foun of praise. I liked to be lionised and made much of.
By these boys? - Yes.
Whose very names you don't remember? - Yes (and the witness resumed the languid, affected drawl of the Queensberry cross-examination), praise from anyone (this very sententiously) is always delightful. Praise from other literary people is usually tainted with criticism. I admit that I am enormously fond of praise and admiration, and that I like to be made much of by my inferiors--inferiors socially. It pleases me very much.
Whose very name you don't remember? - Yes (and the witness resumed the languid, affected drawl of the Queensberry cross-examination), praise from anyone (this very sententiously) is always delightful. Praise from other literary people is usually tainted with criticism. I admit that I am enormously fond of praise and admiration, and that I like to be made much of by my inferiors-inferiors socially. It pleases me very much.
Did it not strike you that in your position you could exercise a considerable influence over these lads, for good or for ill? - No, I am bound to say I don't think it did. The only influence I could exercise on anybody would be
Did it not strike you that in your position you could exercise a considerable influence over these lads for good or ill? - No, I am bound to say I don't think it did. The only influence I could exercise on anybody would be
A LITERARY INFLUENCE.
Of course in the case of these young men that would be out of the question. Otherwise I don't see what capacity I have for influencing people.
Of course, in the case of these younger men, that would be out of the question. Otherwise I don't see what capacity I have for influencing people.
Of course, in the case of these younger men, that would be out of the question. Otherwise I don't see what capacity I have for influencing people.
Asked again about Taylor's rooms the witness said they seemed to him rather tastefully decorated. As to their situation, he thought it a particularly nice one--close to Westminster, close to the Abbey. (Laughter.)
Not a very cheerful street? - I have known artists who lived quite close there.
He had not known Taylor many months when he invited him to come to dine on the occasion of his (Taylor's) birthday, and gave him carte blanche to bring his friends.
He had not known Taylor many months when he invited him to come to dine on the occasion of his (Taylor's) birthday, and gave him carte blanche to bring his friends.
As many as he liked? - Well, I did not ask him to bring a crowd.
Then it was a pure coincidence that the table was laid for four, and that he brought the two Parkers? - No. I think he had ordered the dinner himself. I told him to go to Kettner's because I have been in the habit of dining there for years.
Then it was a pure coincidence that the table was laid for four and that he brought the two Parkers? - No, I think he had ordered the dinners himself. I told him to go to Kettner's because I have been in the habit of dining there for years.
He did not know at the time that the Parkers were valet and groom respectively. Had he known it he would not have cared. He had no sense at all of social differences. He did not pause to consider whether it could be of the slightest service to lads in their position to be entertained in such style by a man in his. They enjoyed it as schoolboys would enjoy a treat. It was something they did not get every day. He did not suppose they would have cared to be entertained to a chop and a pint of ale--they were used to that. They were amused by the
He did not know at the time that the Parkers were valet and groom respectively. Had he known it he would not have cared. He had no sense at all of social differences. He did not pause to consider whether it could be of the slightest service to lads in their position to be entertained in such style by a man in his. They enjoyed it as schoolboys would enjoy a treat. It was something they did not get every day. He did not suppose they would have cared to be entertained to a chop and a pint of ale-they were used to that. They were amused by the
LITTLE LUXURIES
of Kettner's, the pink lamp shades, and so forth. As to wine, he certainly should not stint a guest.
of Kettner's, the pink lamp shades, and so forth. As to wine, he certainly should not stint a guest.
After the dinner he bade the Parkers goodbye, and they went away with Taylor. He certainly did not take Charles Parker to the Savoy Hotel with him.
After the dinner he bade the Parkers good-bye, and they went away with Taylor. He certainly did not take Charles Parker to the Savoy with him.
Did you every sup alone with any young men at the Savoy HOtel about that time? - I could not remember. You are asking me of three years ago. Lord Alfred Douglas may.
But he would be perfectly well known to the waiters of the Savoy? - Oh, yes.
Wherever you are well known he would be? - Oh, I don't know that.
You have stayed together at the Savoy, at the Albemarle, at the Avondale, at St. James's-place, at the Metropole, at Brighton, at Cromer, at Goring, at the Albion at Worthing, and at Torquay? - Yes. He has not stayed with me at St. James's-place, but I have lent him my rooms there.
The witness continued the story of his acquaintance with Charles Parker, who might have visited him seven or eight times at St. James's-place, and with whom on one occasion he dined at Kettner's, going afterwards to the Pavillion. He
The Witness continued the story of his acquaintance with Charles Parker, who might have visited him seven or eight times at St. James's-place, and with whom on one occasion he dined at Kettner's, going afterwards to the Pavillion.
The Witness continued the story of his acquaintance with Charles Parker, who might have visited him seven or eight times at St. James's-place, and with whom on one occasion he dined at Kettner's, going afterwards to the Pavillion.
LAST SAW
him in December, in the street, but did not remember saying to him, "You are looking pretty as ever." He admitted receiving from him the following letter:--"7, Camera-sq. Dear Oscar,--Am I to have the pleasure of dining with you this evening/ If so kindly send answer per messenger or wire me at above address. I do trust it will be convenient, and that we can spend the evening together. With kind regards and apologies, yours, &c., CHAS. PARKER." The witness could not remember whether he responded to this incitation. he was certain he hd never been to see Parker at his Chelsea lodging.
The witness continued the story of his acquaintance with Charles Parker, who might have visited him seven or eight times at St. James's-place, and with whom, on one occasion he dined at Kettner's, going afterwards to the Pavillon. He last saw him in December, in the street, but did not remember saying to him, "You are looking as pretty as ever." He admitted receiving from him the following letter. "7, Camera-square, Dear Oscar, -- Am I to have the pleasure of dining with you this evening? If so, kindly send answer per messenger or wire me at above address. I do trust it will be convenient, and that we can spend the evening together. --With kind regards and apologies, yours, &c., CHAS. PARKER." The witness could not remember whether he responded to this invitation. He was certain he had never been to see Parker at his Chelsea lodging.
The Solicitor-General introduced the name of a young man named Scarfe, who was taken by Taylor to see Wilde. The witness said Scarfe represented himself as a young man who had made money in Australia.
The Solicitor-General introduced the name of a young man named Scarfe, who was taken by Taylor to see Wilde. The witness said Scarfe represented himself as a young man who had made money in Australia.
Why was he brought to you? - Because many people at that time had great pleasure and interest in seeing me.
Did he call you Oscar? - Yes.
At once? - I had to ask him to. I have a passion for being called by Christian name. It pleases me.
Did you give him a cigarette case? - Yes.
Has he dined alone with you? - Yes.
The witness remembered Alfonzo Conway, whom he met on the beach at Worthing in the August of last year. This was a boy who had an ambition to go to sea, and whose mother was a widow and let lodgings. The witness bought him a suit of blue serge, and to amuse him took him for a 24 hours'
The Witness remembered Alfonzo Conway, whom he met on the beach at Worthing in the August of last year. This was a boy who had ambition to go to go to sea, and whose mother was a widow, and let lodgings.
The witness brought him a suit of blue serge, and to amuse him took him for a twenty-four hours'
The witness remembered Alfonzo Conway, whom he met on the beach at Worthing in the August of last year. This was a boy who had an ambition to go to sea, and whose mother was a widow and let lodgings. The witness bought him a suit of blue serge, and to amuse him took him for a 21 hours trip to Brighton, where they slept in adjoining rooms.
The Witness remembered Alfonzo Conway, whom he met on the beach at Worthing in the August of last year. This was a boy who had ambition to go to go to sea, and whose mother was a widow, and let lodgings.
TRIP TO BRIGHTON,
where they slept in adjoining rooms. While the Solicitor-General cross-examined as to the moral effects of the trip on Alfonzo there was time to observe that to-day Lord Queensberry could not get a seat, but had to stand at the back of the reserved enclosure, where he sucked the brim of his hat and stared across at the witness with twinkling beady eyes.
where they slept in adjoining rooms. While the Solicitor-General cross examined as to the moral effects of the trip on Alfonzo there was time to observe that Lord Queensberry could not get a seat, but had to stand at the back of the reserved enclosure, where he sucked the brim of his hat and stared across at the witness with twinkling beady eyes.
where they slept in adjoining rooms. While the Solicitor-General cross examined as to the moral effects of the trip on Alfonzo there was time to observe that Lord Queensberry could not get a seat, but had to stand at the back of the reserved enclosure, where he sucked the brim of his hat and stared across at the witness with twinkling beady eyes.
In continued cross-examination, the witness who had constantly to sip at the frequently replenished glass of water at his side, said he met Harrington in the company of Schwabe at the Cafe Royal. He denied that he had ever given him either of two scarf pins which were produced by the Solicitor-General. He also met Wood, by appointment, at the Cafe Royal. He had been asked to assist him, and took him to super at the Florence. He had already supped himself.
In continued cross-examination, the Witness, who had constantly to sip at the frequently replenished glass of water at his side, said he met Harrington in the company of Schwabe at the Café Royal. He denied that he had ever given him either of two scarf pins which were produced by the Solicitor-General. He also met Wood, by appointment, at the Café Royal. He had been asked to assist him, and took him to supper at the Florence. He had already supped himself.
In continued cross-examination, the Witness, who had constantly to sip at the frequently replenished glass of water at his side, said he met Harrington in the company of Schwabe at the Café Royal. He denied that he had ever given him either of two scarf pins which were produced by the Solicitor-General. He also met Wood, by appointment, at the Café Royal. He had been asked to assist him, and took him to supper at the Florence. He had already supped himself.
In continued cross-examination,the witness, who had constantly to sip at the frequently replenished glass of water at his side, said he met Harrington in the company of Schwabe at the Café Royal. He denied that he had ever given him either of two scarf pins which were produced by the Solicitor-General. He also met Wood, by appointment, at the Café Royal. He had been asked to assist him, and took him to supper at the Florence. He had already supped himself.
They why not give him 5s. to go and get his supper? - Ah, that would be treating him like a beggar. He was sent to be by Lord Alfred Douglas.
Then why not give him 5s. to go and get his supper? - Ah, that would be treating him like a beggar. He was sent to me by Lord Alfred Douglas.
Did you know he came from 13, Little College-st.? - No, I did not know that. He said [...]