Humour is an effective antidote to boredom – and in the absence of genuine work in the squadron at present diversions such as the one provided in our orderly room this morning are welcomed. The diversion in question was a "mock trial" only the "accused" – one A/Sgt. "Jay-jay" Carruthers - was not advised of the true position, and was marched into the orderly room under a heavy "guard" to appear before the Adjutant.
Previous collaboration between the Disciplinary and the Adjutant had resulted in a lengthy list of entirely spurious charges being drawn up, at the reading of which the "prisoner" visibly wilted. Asked whether he had anything to say in his defence, "Jay-jay" requested the aid of a legal adviser. Lieut. Newman was sent for and this officer began haranguing the court in approved style, concluding his address by asking for the discharge of the "accused"on the grounds of insanity!
Then, and only then, did the subject of the hoax realise that there was a joke afoot, and his discomfiture was added to when Major O'Brien, amidst roars of laughter from the court, suggested that the prisoner be held for further observation by 5 S.A. General! The court dismissed and the erstwhile prisoner was congratulated by the large crowd "in the know"who gathered about the orderly room for the occasion.