The Testimony of Burris Ewell

Burris Ewell Testimony

Mr. Finch: Can Burris Ewell please come to the stand.

*Burris Ewell takes oath and goes to the stand*

Mr. Finch: Good day Mr. Ewell.

Burris Ewell: Maybe for me and my family but for you and Tom it is about to be hell.

Mr. Finch: I’m going to ask you a few questions, and I want you to tell the truth, okay?

Burris Ewell: yes, sir.

Mr. Finch: What were you doing on the night where Mayella Ewell was allegedly raped?

Burris Ewell: I was getting ice cream, sir. 

Mr. Finch: When did you return home from eating ice cream that night?

Burris Ewell: I would say about 30 minutes after my dad said it happened. Are you saying that I was there when it happened and let it happen, sir?

Mr. Finch: No. I am just trying to figure out what happened that night.

Burris Ewell: It’s clear what happened to anyone in their right mind. That n***** Tom raped my sister and you’re defending him you are you filthy n***** lover. Go to hell.

Judge Taylor: The witness will not speak to the defendant nor anyone in this courthouse in such a manner!!

Burris Ewell: Yes sir. Sorry sir.

Mr. Finch: Now Burris, in no way did I intend to offend you I just wanted to ask you a few questions. Now, Where did you get the money to buy ice cream?

Burris Ewell: My sister gave it to me.

Mr. Finch: What did you do after?

Burris Ewell: I went to the ice cream store.

Mr. Finch: What type of ice cream did you get Burris?

Mr. Gilmer: Objection, How does this have anything to do with the case?

Judge Taylor: Let Atticus continue, Mr Gilmer. Atticus continue as you were.

Mr. Finch: Now Burris, what flavor of ice cream did you get?

Burris Ewell: Chocolate! (replies quickly and aggressively)

Mr. Finch: Burris, do you know the cost of ice cream?

Burris Ewell: No sir.

Mr. Finch: In times like these, it’s a lot of money. A lot of money for your sister to give you. Now Burris. Tell the truth of what happened, and you will protect your sister. Tell the truth, and you will protect your other siblings.

Burris Ewell: (crying) I’m sorry sir I raced my brothers home and when I got home I looked in the back window and saw my pa beating Mayella and I didn’t want to say anything cause he said he’d beat me if I did and I’m sorry I’m sorry I’m sorry.

Mr. Finch: It’s quite alright Burris. You did the right thing. Mr. Taylor, I think we’re done here.