_Presiding Magistrate_. There! You and I can sit here, and the rest
can remain outside. And now I will take the night charges.

_Voice from Passage_ (_without_). Please, your worship, as I was on
duty last night, this man--

_Builder_ (_putting his head in_). Sorry to trouble you, Sir, but we
have got something to do to the flooring. Must ask you to be off.

_P.M._ (_restraining his indignation_). Very well; the Court is
adjourned to the back garden. (_Scene changes to that locality._)
Come, this is better! Fresh air, in spite of the smuts! And now,
Constable, go on with your evidence.

_Police Constable_. Well, your Worship, as I was on duty last night,
this man--

_Builder_ (_entering_). Very sorry to trouble you again, Sir, but
there's something wrong with the drains. We think the pipes are out
of order, and so we shall have to dig them up. So, if you don't mind
moving--

_P.M._ (_restraining his indignation_). Very well; the Court is
adjourned to the coal-cellar. (_Scene changes to that locality._)
Come, this is not so bad! Very cool, if rather damp. And now,
Constable, go on with your evidence.

_Police Constable_. Well, your Worship, as I was on duty last night,
this man--