Mr. Force came forward with his party, bowed to the dignitary, whom he frequently met in social life and knew very well, and saluted him with a—
“Good-morning, judge,” as if he, too, had just dropped in to make a morning call.
“Good-morning, Mr. Force,” replied his honor, rising and looking about him.
Seeing the large party who had entered the room, he turned to the young man in attendance, and said:
“O’Brien, find seats for these ladies.”
When they were all seated, Mr. Force remained standing before the judge, with only the table between them.
Col. Anglesea sat back at ease in his chair, with his chin a little elevated, playing carelessly with the charms attached to his watch chain.
There was a short pause, and then Mr. Force, laying a document on the table, said:
“Your honor, I return the writ with which I have been served. My daughter, Odalite Force, is present.”
“Take a seat, Mr. Force,” said the judge, and then, turning to the young man whom he had called O’Brien, he took from his hand a paper and began to read it to himself.