Illinois vs. August Spies et al. trial transcript no. 1 Direct examination by Mr. Grinnell. Testified on behalf of the Prosecution, People of the State of Illinois. Testified in regards to conversation between August Spies and Superintendent Ebersold that took place while Spies was in custody. Testified on various topics (page numbers provide a partial guide): Spies, August (vol.N 286), arrest of Spies (vol.N 286), arrest of Schwab (vol.N 286).
Testimony of James Bonfield (third appearance), 1886 Aug. 11.
Volume N, 286-287, 2 p.
Bonfield, James.
Detective, Chicago Police Department.
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[Image, Volume N, Page 286]
JAMES BONFIELD,
re-called on behalf of the People, was examined in chief by Mr. Grinnell, and testified as follows:
Q You have been sworn?
A I have.
Q You were present at the station at the interview between Superintendent Ebersol and the defendant Spies?
A I was
Q You may state what Ebersol said to Spies at that time or to those people?
Objected to.
THE COURT: You have already had the version of Bonfield In the original examination he said that Ebersol addressed them in German and used some language, which although he didn't understand the whole conversation, yet he understood enough of it---
MR. GRINNELL: That was brought out and cross examination by Captain Black, asked him a question. An objection was made to it, and then the objection was withdrawn, finally. I want to know now how much was said.
THE COURT: I don't know whether it was on cross or direct.
MR. FOSTER: It was on their original case.
THE COURT: They were not bound to go into a matter which you alluded to on cross examination.
MR. FOSTER: We will admit it was on cross examination.
THE COURT: If it was on cross examination, they have a right now to examine the witness in reply to what the defendany Spies said.
MR. GRINNELL: Q State in the first place, did Mr. Ebersol lay hands on Spies?
A He did not. He made a great many motions, he walked around the floor, and most of the conversation was in German. I know the word "hound" was used a great deal, and after I was speaking to him to be quiet, I made some remark to the chief, and put my hand on his shoulder. He then said in English, addressing Schwab "You are driven from your own country, and now you want to dictate to us".
Q Chief Ebersol is German?
A He is.
Q He is not in town at present?
A No sir.