Baltus Van Tassel quotes from Sleepy Hollow (1999)

And you, sir?

Baltus Van Tassel

A simple farmer who has prospered. The town looks to me as friend and counsel.

And landlord. And banker. Can we proceed? Thank you.

So... [Walks by Dr. Lancaster] Three persons murdered. [Walks past Baltus Van Tassel] First, Peter Van Garrett and his son, Dirk Van Garrett. [Walks by Magistrate Philipse] Both of them strong, capable men, found together... [to Reverend Steenwyck] decapitated. One week later, the widow Winship. [To Steenwyck, again] Also, decapitated. Now, I will need to ask you many questions. But first, let me ask: Is anyone suspected?

a How much have your superiors explained to you, constable?

Only that the three were slain in open ground. Their heads found severed from their bodies.

Their heads were not found severed. Their heads were not found at all.

The heads are... gone?

Taken. Taken by the Headless Horseman. Taken back to hell.

Gentlemen. Murder needs no ghosts come from the grave. We have murders in New York without benefit of ghouls and goblins.

Baltus Van Tassel

You are a long way from New York, constable.

It was a headless horseman.

Baltus Van Tassel

You must not excite yourself.

But it was a headless horseman!

Baltus Van Tassel

Of course it was. That's why you're here.

No, you must believe me. It was a horseman, a dead one. Headless.

Baltus Van Tassel

I know, I know.

You don't know because you were not there! It's all true.

Baltus Van Tassel

Of course it is. I told you. Everyone told you.

I... saw him. [faints]