For the expression of these financial opinions
in an open office during business hours he is set upon, threatened
with expulsion, and finally challenged to a mortal duel. I ask you,
as chivalric Virginians, is this right?"
Yancey was about to answer, when the judge raised his hand impressively.
"The co'te, not being familiar with the practice of this section, can
on'y decide the question in acco'dance with the practice of his own
county. The language used is not objectionable, either under the law
or by the code. The prisoner, Klutchem, is discharged with a reprimand,
and the plaintiff, Caarter, leaves the co'te room without a stain on
his cha'acter. The co'te will now take a recess."
Fitz listened with great gravity to the decision of the learned judge,
bowed to him with the pleased deference of the winning attorney, grasped
the colonel's hand, and congratulated him warmly on his acquittal.
[Illustration]
Then, locking his arm through Yancey's, he conducted that pugnacious
but parched Virginian, together with the overworked judge, out into
the street, down a flight of stone steps, and into an underground
apartment; from which they emerged later with that satisfied, cheerful
air peculiar to a group of men who have slaked their thirst.
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