It was a foregone conclusion that we should be committed for trial.

We all three pleaded not guilty and reserved our defence.

Before leaving the Court, however, notwithstanding his lordship's interruption, I protested against the revival of an old law which had fallen into desuetude, which had not been enforced in the City of London for over fifty years, and which was altogether alien to the spirit of the age.

My remarks were greeted with loud applause by the public in Court.

Of course his lordship frowned, and the ushers shouted "Silence!" But the mischief was done.