Lord of the Flies: Jack Merridew - Not Guilty Ladies and gentlemen of the jury, I, Jack Merridew, the defendant, stand here and speak the truth to prove that I am innocent of attempting to murder Ralph, the plaintiff, and influencing the boys to kill Simon and Piggy. By definition attempted murder is a conscience attempt upon another person's life. Let me also add that an individual is not controlled by another individual. Now, on the accusations regarding the plaintiff, I am innocent. As I mentioned, attempted murder is a conscience attempt upon another person's life. The boys and I were content with our way