James Laing, writer in the Council Chamber, Edinburgh, called in and sworn.

Examined by Mr. Hay — Do you remember of any process being brought before the magistrates against Mr. Brodie some time before he left this place, for using false or loaded dice?

James Laing — I do.

Mr. Hay — At whose instance was the process?

James Laing — At the instance of one Hamilton, a chimney-sweep in Portsburgh.

Mr. Hay — When was this process?

James Laing — I do not exactly remember; but steps have been taken in it within these six months.

Lord Eskgrove — I suppose this Mr. Hamilton is not a common sweep, but a master who keeps men and boys for the purpose?

James Laing — He is a master, as your Lordship observes.

Cross-examined by the Lord Advocate — Do you know Mr. Brodie to be a gambler?

James Laing — I never gambled with him.