Sam, an 80-year-old man, was called as a witness in a burglary trial.
The courtroom was quiet as the defense lawyer stood up and walked toward him with a confident smile.
“Mr. Sam,” the lawyer began, “did you actually see my client commit this burglary?”
Sam adjusted himself in the witness chair and nodded.
“Yes, sir,” he said. “I saw him plainly take the goods.”
The lawyer raised an eyebrow.
“Now, Sam, let’s be careful. This happened at night, didn’t it?”
“Yes,” Sam replied.
“And you’re telling this court that, at your age, in the dark, you clearly saw my client commit the crime?”
“That’s right,” said Sam. “I saw him do it.”
The lawyer gave the jury a knowing look.
“Sam,” he continued, “you are 80 years old. Isn’t it possible your eyesight isn’t what it used to be?”
Sam shrugged. “My eyes are fine.”
The lawyer leaned closer.
“Then tell the court, Sam… just how far can you see at night?”
Sam looked at him calmly and said,
“Well, I can see the moon. How far is that?”
