At the inquest, it was found that the man met his death by his own fault, having first attacked a Belloc man and injured him.

The Belloc man showed the injury to the jury, and he was acquitted.

Carnac watched the case closely, and instructed his lawyer to contend that the general attack was first made by Belloc's men, which was true; but the jury decided that this did not affect the individual case, and that the John Grier man met his death by his own fault.
"A shocking verdict!" he said aloud in the Court when it was given.
"Sir," said the Coroner, "it is the verdict of men who use their judgment after hearing the evidence, and your remark is offensive and criminal." "If it is criminal, I apologize," said Carnac.
"You must apologize for its offensiveness, or you will be arrested, sir." This nettled Carnac.

"I will not apologize for its offensiveness," he said firmly.
"Constable, arrest this man," said the Coroner, and the constable did so.
"May I be released on bail ?" asked Carnac with a smile.
"I am a magistrate.

Yes, you may be released on bail," said the Coroner.
Carnac bowed, and at once a neighbour became security for three thousand dollars.