The next day after his return from college David started his legal labors under the watchful eye of the Judge. He made a leap-frog progress in acquiring an accurate knowledge of legal lore. He worked and waited patiently for the Judge’s recognition of his readiness to try his first case, and at last the eventful time came.
“No; there isn’t the slightest prospect of his winning it,” the Judge told his wife that night. 153
“The prosecution has strong evidence, and we have nothing––barely a witness of any account.”
“Then the poor man will be convicted and David will gain no glory,” lamented M’ri. “It means so much to a young lawyer to win his first case.”
The Judge smiled.
“Neither of them needs any sympathy. Miggs ought to have been sent over the road long ago. David’s got to have experience before he gains glory.”
“How did you come to take such a case?” asked M’ri, for the Judge was quite exclusive in his acceptance of clients.
“It was David’s doings,” said the Judge, with a frown that had a smile lurking behind it.
“Why did he wish you to take the case?” persisted M’ri.
“As near as I can make out,” replied the Judge, with a slight softening of his grim features, “it was because Miggs’ wife takes in washing when Miggs is celebrating.”