Harris v. State

The appellant was indicted for an assault and battery with intent to commit a rape; a trial was had before a jury, and a verdict of guilty of assault and battery only; fine five hundred dollars. Motion for a new trial overruled.

The court, over the objection of the defendant, instructed the jury that, “inasmuch as counsel on both sides have spoken to you about the reputation and good character of both the defendant and prosecuting witness, Ellen Patty, it becomes my duty to say to you that you should give no time *132to the discussion of the general character of either of these persons, for the…