What was he paid for? That was plain talk—that made the truth stand out clearly! He was the hireling of this man—not his associate. He was hired to do contemptible work and he had done it,—was doing it. No wonder his employer stood ready with insult to show how he despised his creature. It was perfectly safe. An officer of the Court was bound by professional duty and gagged by confidential communications. He must sit still and see this outrage on Justice perpetrated. Even aid in it. And for what? For money. How far had he sold himself—how much of his manhood was included in the purchase? He could retire from the case? Yes, after the day’s dirty work was finished and the wrong could not be righted.
If he raised his hand to stop this thing, how many lawyers in the City would uphold him? Not many in the Titan Building. It was easy to foreshadow the construction which would be placed upon his conduct. He could almost hear the fierce denunciation. To defend himself he would have to violate professional secrecy still further. True, there were those who would understand—men to whom their calling was and always would be “the honourable profession of the law”—men who would never permit the Law’s mantle of dignity to become a cloak for the vicious. But the others—“the high average”? Had he the courage to face their verdict?
Perspiration poured down Sargent’s face and his hand shook with suppressed wrath as Fenton rose and again addressed the Court.
“I presume your Honour will enforce your order? I don’t wish to make a scene.”
The Justice looked inquiringly at the lawyers, but neither of them made any sign.
“Madam,” he said at last, “I have awarded your husband the custody of his children pending this action. You will kindly put no obstacle in the way of the execution of my order.”
The chairs of the leerers grated on the floor with eagerness, and the skirts of the shameless shivered with delicious tremors.
Ah—this was worth coming for! A woman’s tenderest feelings were to be exposed and crushed. Privacy was to be invaded—delicacy was to be unveiled—the sacred was to be handled. Ah—this well repaid the waiting!
Mrs. Fenton flushed as the Judge addressed her, and then grew ashy pale as she answered.
“You have no right, no man has any right, to dispose of my children. They shall not leave me! I will not permit it!”