TERRITORIES: Blind Spot

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The grand climax to Mr. Darrow's case came as one of those dramatic and extemporaneous surprises which makes even the smartest criminal lawyer thank his lucky stars. Mrs. Massie, her blonde pallor set off by a black dress, was put on the stand to corroborate her husband's story of her ravishment and its effect upon him. For her it was a harrowing ordeal. Tears streamed down her cheeks. Her low drawling voice frequently broke off into choking sobs. From her Counsel Darrow drew forth many a detail of her husband's affection before turning her over to Prosecutor Kelley. Then the following occurred:

Prosecutor: Was your husband always kind to you? Witness (softly): Yes. Prosecutor: Did you have a psychopathic examination at the University of Hawaii last summer? Witness (bridling): I went to see Dr. Kelly. Prosecutor (handing her a piece of paper): Do you remember writing these answers to a set of questions. . . ? Witness (blazing with anger): Where did you get that? (Snatching the paper.) Do you realize this is a confidential document—a matter between doctor and patient? What right have you to bring this into a public court?* Prosecutor: I'm asking questions, not answering them. Is that your handwriting? Witness (bolt upright with indignation) : I refuse to say whether it is or not.

Defiantly the witness tore the paper to shreds. Spectators, moved by the flashing reality of the scene, broke into loud applause. Mrs. Massie rushed down from the witness stand.

Prosecutor (his neck red with rage) : Thank you, Mrs. Massie, at last you've shown yourself in your true colors.

Judge: That language is objectionable!

Lawyer Darrow (placidly) : The defense rests.

Mrs. Massie (throwing herself hysterically into her husband's arms): Oh Tommy, what right had he to say I don't love you. Everybody knows I love you!