11 Apr 1895 - The Globe (London)
Page 5, Column 2, Link
Sir J. Bridge again sat in the Extradition Court at Bow-street to-day to hear further evidence in support of the charges preferred against Oscar Wilde. Alfred Taylor, who was arrested last week, was again placed with him in the dock, and charged with conspiracy. - Mr. C. F. Gill, instructed by Mr. Angus Lewis, of the Treasury, prosecuted; Sir E. Clarke and Mr. Humphreys appeared on behalf of Wilde; and Mr. A. Newton defended Taylor - There was a large attendance, and the greatest interest was manifested in the proceedings.
Sir E. Clarke said that, by the courtesy of the magistrate, he had had the opportunity of reading over the depositions taken last Saturday, but upon considering the matter, he had decided not to ask that the witnesses should be recalled for cross-examination, as probably no cross-examination could affect the result, so far as the proceedings at that court were concerned. It was most desirable that the defence should be conducted in as short a time as possible, with a view to terminating the proceedings.
The Magistrate: It is absolutely incumbent to get the matter over as quickly as possible.
Mr. Newton said he had been instructed to appear on behalf of Taylor. Without going into details, he was desirous of asking a few questions of the witnesses already called. He was bound to do this, as the charge against Taylor was quite district from that against Wilde.
Charles Parker was recalled, and cross-examined by Mr. Newton, said he was arrested with several others in Fitzroy-square last August, but he only knew one of them. Questioned as to his conversation at the St. James's Restaurant, he said he had never seen Taylor before. Witness was examined as to his knowledge of a man named Atkins, and as to the reason of his leaving his employment as valet. He said he received ₤30 from persons who had blackmailed gentlemen.