How John saved Statutory Interpretation

After questioning Jill for 20 minutes, Professor M tried to move on:

Professor M: “Okay, let’s go with someone else. Jack Smith?”
Jill: “He’s not here today.”
Professor M: “Hm. Okay, what about John Doe?”

(Silence)

Professor M: “Fine, what about Andy Johnson?”

(Silence, a few chuckles)

Professor M: “…erm, Sarah Patel?”

(some people start laughing)

Professor M: “What are the odds?! I mean, MOST of you are here! See what happens when you don’t show up… Okay, okay, what about John Williams?”
John: “Here!”

(class applauds)