The prejudice and venom on the part of the
Court and the Prosecution against Alexander Berkman and Emma Goldman
was demonstrated from the very beginning. It reached its climax
in the brutal treatment of the friends of the defendants who came
to attend the trial. While the court room was packed with friends
of the Judge, Prosecuting Attorney and Marshal McCarthy, the friends
of Alexander Berkman and Emma Goldman were shoved about and insulted
and on numerous occasions almost kicked down the stairs. It was
under only the greatest difficulty that a few friends of the defendants
could be passed through the Cossacks at the door of the American
Court. On one occasion Emma Goldman had to call upon Judge Mayer
for reasons why the friends of the two defendants were thus treated.
EMMA GOLDMAN: Your Honor, is there any special
reason why the friends of the defense are kept out, as long as
there is room in the court?
THE COURT: The control of the courtroom
in such matters is entirely in the hands of the United States
marshal. I assume that he is exercising his discretion appropriately.
EMMA GOLDMAN: We certainly protest against
the discrimination.
THE COURT: The court has no knowledge of
discrimination. How much time do you desire?
ALEXANDER BERKMAN: I think the defense will
require about three hours altogether. Maybe less.
THE COURT: Well, endeavor to finish the
defense's summing-up by 1:15 if possible.
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