Jacques turned in time to see the Bailiff bow low. The Chief Justice entered with a swish of ceremonial robes. He was followed by a tall, thin man, dressed in knightly costume. The Bailiff made a second bow, and spoke again:
"His Excellency, Sir Mallory, representing the Federal Bureau of Internal Tranquility!"
Jacques felt suddenly relieved. It was good to have someone from his own Bureau here. These judges were too cold, too impersonal.
The Chief Justice was carrying his wig, which was not yet fully powdered. His heavy jowls quivered with indignation.
"What's this nonsense, Sir Jacques?" he demanded imperiously. "Court is ready to convene—We have no time to get another executioner!"
"I'm sorry, your Highness, but I must ask your indulgence this one time."
"Impossible!"
Sir Mallory stepped forward and smiled in a conciliatory manner.
"Perhaps Sir Jacques does not understand all the circumstances," he said soothingly. "You see, Sir Jacques, this execution is very important to FBIT. There hasn't been a first-rate execution in nearly three years, and this is the only release we've had to offer the public in all that time. Of course, the Court still must decide in its own wisdom whether there are any grounds for setting aside the verdict, but we would not want any of our Bureau personnel to be responsible for disappointing the public."
"I've always done my duty," Jacques protested. "But this one time—"