I do not think that the reception of a bag of money by Mr. A.
BRIEFLESS, Jun., would amount to maintenance. But it would be
advisable that the learned gentleman should undertake not to use any
of the sum in defraying costs.
As the ancient manner of paying counsel was to drop an honorarium into
the bags worn at the back of their robes, I can see nothing derogatory
to the profession in Mr. A. BRIEFLESS, Jun., accepting the proposed
Testimonial.
I do not see that a distinction can be drawn between coins of the
realm and their equivalent. Both are equally acceptable. If Mr. A.
BRIEFLESS. Jun., prefers cash to snuff-boxes, there is no reason why
he should not receive the former in preference to the latter.
I would advise that the Testimonial be collected at once, and
presented as quickly as possible.
(_Signed_) ----.
I have nothing further to say beyond hinting that the project has
already been taken up with a fair amount of enthusiasm. Many firms
of manufacturers have expressed a desire to send subscriptions (which
they wish to see published in the daily papers) on the score
"that they have been happy enough never to have had cause to avail
themselves of my valuable professional services."
And now I must apologise for so lengthy a contribution. I have nothing
to add, save that should a Testimonial be organised, I shall be glad
were the subscriptions fixed at £1 3_s._ 6_d._ Out of that sum I
should, of course, deduct half-a-crown as an appropriate recognition
of the services of my admirable and excellent clerk, Mr. PORTINGTON.
(_Signed_) A. BRIEFLESS, JUN.
_Pump-handle Court, September 9, 1895._
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[Illustration: THE TURTLE-DOVE OF PEACE; OR, THE LORD MAYOR IN FRANCE.
["Sir JOSEPH RENALS said he hoped his visit would serve to dissipate
the idea that there was a spirit of hostility towards France in
England. If he succeeded in removing that misunderstanding,
he considered he would have rendered a great service to his
country."--_Westminster Gazette._]]
* * * * *
[Illustration: A CONTINENTAL TRIP.
_First Man (tasting beer)._ "HULLO! I ORDERED LAGER. THIS ISN'T
LAGER!" _Second Man (tasting)_. "NO; BUT IT'S JOLLY GOOD, ALL THE
SAME!" _Third Man (tasting)_. "C'EST MAGNIFIQUE! MAIS CE N'EST PAS
LAGER-R-R!"]
* * * * *