Marlborough Express - Saturday, April 6, 1895

London, April 4.

In the course of his evidence, Mr Wilde explained the effusive language of the letters addressed to Lord Alfred Douglas as the natural expression of an artist attracted by a beautiful personality. The Marquis of Queensberry visited his residence, and threatened Wilde, to which the latter responded with—"You are the most infamous brute in London!"

Wilde admitted a close intimacy with a number of young men, but denied anything improper in it. He paid no regard to social inferiority if friends were amusing. Lord Douglas' letters showed that he threatened to shoot his father if he attempted to thrash him. The Marquis' letter referred to eminent statesmen, but the reference as political.

Wilde's case is closed.

Mr Carsons, in opening the defence, declared that the plaintiff's proteges were among the most immoral persons in London. Wilde's intimacies were absolutely irreconcileable with his claims to be an exponent of culture. His literature alone justified the charges against him. In conclusion, he claimed that defendant's witnesses, amongst whom was Wood, the chief blackmailer, would prove the case to the hilt.

West Coast Times - Saturday, April 6, 1895

London, April 4.

In cross-examination, Oscar Wilde admitted he was acquainted with young men named Taylor, Parker, and Atkens. Taylor had introduced him to 5 young men on separate occasions, to whom witness had given money, but he was not aware that any of them were gentlemen's servants. He said he derived pleasure from being in the company of bright and happy people. Witness had frequently been to Taylor's room, and was aware that both Taylor and Parker had been arrested, but still continued their friendship. Once he took Atkens and a youth named Price to Paris and introduced them to another youth named Earnest Scarp, who became acquainted with Lord Douglas when making a voyage to Australia. Wilde said he had made presents to Scarp and Mabor because he liked them. Letters were read in Court which proved that the Marquis of Queensbery was endeavoring to stop his son from visiting Wilde. His son wired back to his father that Wilde was a funny little man. The Marquis subsequently called at Wilde's house, where a furious scene took place. The latter denied the charges levelled against him, and showed the Marquis the door. Witness wrote to the Marquis complaining that his wife encouraged his son's visits. Wilde's friendship with Lady Queensbery and the sons remained unbroken. Certain letters from the youths already named showed that the writers were poverty stricken. Some were imploring assistance or employment.

Wilde admitted close intimacy with a number of young men but denied anything impropsr in it. He said he paid no regard to social inferiority if the friends were amusing. Lord Douglas' letters showed he threatened to shoot his father if he attempted to thrash him. The Marquis's letter referred to an eminent statesman but the reference was political. Wilde's case is closed.

Carson, in opening for the defence, declared plaintiff's protegés were among the most immoral persons in London. Wilde's intimacies were absolutely irreconcilable with his claims as an exponent of culture. His literature alone justified the charges against him. In conclusion he claimed the defendant's witnesses, amongst whom was Wood, the chief blackmailer, would prove the case to the hilt.

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