APPENDIX. 19I 
in his own mind his account of it will be confused and 
unsatisfactory. This is undoubtedly the test to which every 
man should rigorously submit himself before entering the 
witness-box. The case should be viewed in all possible 
aspects ; and if an opinion has been formed, it should be 
dealt with and criticised as if it were that of an adversary. 
As in controversy, a disputant should place himself as much 
as possible in the position of his antagonist, and see the 
question from his point of view. In this kind of self- 
examination it may be well to remember two points—first, 
that there is no opinion so certain as that the human mind, 
if left to itself, will not infallibly raise a difference of opinion 
upon it; and secondly, that a man is never so near an error 
as when he claims a complete immunity from error. 
Rules for the Delivery of Evidence. 
There are a few rules bearing upon medical evidence 
which, if observed, may save the witness from interruption 
or reproof and place him in a favourable position with the 
Court. 
Direct Answers. 
The questions put on either side should receive arect 
answers, and the manner of the witness should not be per- 
ceptibly different, whether he is replying to a question put 
by the counsel for the prosecution or for the defence. 
Most of the questions put by counsel in cross-examination 
will admit of an answer “yes” or “no.” If, from the in- 
genious or casuistical mode in which the question is framed, 
the witness should feel that the simple affirmative or negative 
might mislead the Court, then, after giving the answer, he 
can appeal to the judge to allow him to qualify it, or add to 
it any matter within 42s own knowledge and which is at the 
same time relevant to the case. The witness must remember 
