Until now Marvin had been complete master of the situation, but Thomas's last words drove the blood from his face and he grew troubled as he looked up at the judge and then away and out through the window into space. There had been something on his mind, but he had been able to keep it in the background because of Bill's predicament. And now it came to the surface again.
Townsend studied Marvin intently for several moments and then he asked, quietly, "You are an attorney in good standing, are you not?"
At the judge's question, Thomas got up and looked down upon Marvin, in insolent inquiry.
Marvin did not answer at once; then he walked over to the judge's bench and with his head bowed said, "No, your Honor, I am not."
"Do you mean to say that you are not a member of the bar?" There was surprise and injured dignity and at the same time a strong savor of pity in Lem Townsend's voice.
Thomas and Hammond exchanged smiles of triumph, the former advancing to a place by Marvin's side in front of the judge.
The horror in Millie's face told Marvin that her last shred of consideration for him had been torn away.
Bill alone held faith, smiling encouragement at the lad who had been his only friend when his hour was at its worst.
With eyes on the ground, slowly, and in low voice, Marvin explained, "No, I have never been admitted to the bar, your Honor. But Mr. Jones had taken a long journey from the Soldiers' Home, on his own account and at his own expense, to testify in my case. When, without warning, this action for divorce was called, I knew it was a conspiracy." The injustice accorded Bill drew Marvin from himself again. Pointing at Hammond and Thomas, he raised his voice. "I knew that these two conspirators—"
Thomas interrupted him by jumping from his seat and making a menace with his right arm.