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“This evidence is of importance to you, Mr. Byam,” Mr. Graham said. “You have told me that Tinkler went down with you at that time and that you bade each other good-night?”

“Yes, sir.”

“Then Hayward must have heard you speak. We must see to it that he acknowledges this. If we can prove that Tinkler was with you it will bear out your account of the conversation with Christian, which Tinkler overheard. Hallet struck you a heavy blow in saying that you turned away laughing after Captain Bligh had spoken to you.”

“There was not a word of truth in the statement, sir,” I said, hotly.

“I am sure there was not. In my opinion neither Hayward nor Hallet made a favourable impression upon the Court. But their evidence cannot be disregarded. Together, it is enough to condemn Morrison; his situation now is much more grave than it was. Did you have an opportunity to observe the actions of Hayward and Hallet on the morning of the mutiny?”

“Yes, I saw them a number of times.”

“What can you say of them? Were they cool and self-possessed?”