(_Fragment from a romance not entirely imaginary_)
SCENE.--_A corridor in the Royal Courts. Eminent counsel in
conversation with estimable solicitor and respected client._
_Client._ I am rather sorry, sir, that you could not conduct my case in
person.
_Coun._ So am I. I took a deal of trouble in preparing the argument I
proposed to advance, and it was a great disappointment to me that I was
unable to deliver it in person.
_Solic._ But your junior, sir, represented you to perfection.
_Coun._ I am rejoiced to hear it. I give every credit to my young
and learned friend, and am pleased to think that when we met in
consultation I was able to choose the right line of policy.
_Solic._ Besides, if you were not with us, your retainer prevented you
from being against us. And that was a distinct advantage.
_Coun._ You are most flattering, and too kind.
_Solic._ Not at all; and I am sure my client agrees with me?
_Client._ Well, of course I would rather have had the assistance of
silk, although your junior no doubt did his best.
_Coun._ I am sure he did. And now, gentlemen, is there anything further
I can do for you?
_Solic._ Thank you very much--I think not. You got up your case,
consulted with your junior and if you were prevented from putting in an
appearance in the Court itself, were there in spirit. Besides, I repeat
it was a good thing for us that you did not join the Bar of the other
side. Thank you very much indeed, sir. Good day.
_Coun._ Good day. (_He prepares to walk off, when, noticing a movement
of the solicitor, he stops._) You are sure I can do nothing more for
you?
_Solic._ Oh, it’s scarcely worth mentioning. But perhaps you would not
mind returning your fee.
_Coun._ With the greatest pleasure! (_Hands over a bag of gold and
exit._)
_Client._ Well, really, that seems to me very generous! Isn’t it rather
unusual?
_Solic._ Unusual! Oh dear no! Why, it’s the practice of the whole
profession!
_Curtain._
* * * * *
[Illustration: A RISING JUNIOR.--_Old Lady (at the Law Courts)._ “Could
you kindly direct me, sir, to----”
_Young Briefless._ “My dear madam, I’m a perfect stranger myself--don’t
think I’ve been in a court for the last twenty years!”]
* * * * *
[Illustration: HIS FIRST!--_Constable (suspiciously)._ “That bag,
sir--does it contain----?”
_Little Barrister._ “My brief!”]
* * * * *