But the prisoner could not stand as yet; he gasped for breath, and some one set him on a chair.
"Your Worship, this is a mere matter of form," said Carroway, still keeping eyes on his prey; "if I had my own way, I would not trouble you at all, and I believe it to be quite needless.

For this man is an outlaw felon, and not entitled to any grace of law; but I must obey my orders." "Certainly you must, Lieutenant Carroway, even though you are better acquainted with the law.

You are ready to be sworn?
Take this book, and follow me." This being done, the worthy magistrate prepared to write down what the gallant officer might say, which, in brief, came to this, that having orders to seize Robin Lyth wherever he might find him, and having sure knowledge that said Robin was on board of a certain schooner vessel, the Elizabeth, of Goole, the which he had laden with goods liable to duty, he, Charles Carroway, had gently laid hands on him, and brought him to the nearest justice of the peace, to obtain an order of commitment.
All this, at fifty times the length here given, Lieutenant Carroway deposed on oath, while his Worship, for want of a clerk, set it down in his own very neat handwriting.

But several very coaly-looking men, who could scarcely be taught to keep silence, observed that the magistrate smiled once or twice; and this made them wait a bit, and wink at one another.
"Very clear indeed, Lieutenant Carroway," said Dr.Upround, with spectacles on nose.

"Good Sir, have the kindness to sign your deposition.