Then Sargent’s voice broke the stillness of the Court.

“If your Honour please, I wish to withdraw the motion in this case.”

There was a moment of absolute, breathless silence.

Then Fenton sprang to his feet.

“Withdraw?” he almost shouted. “What do you mean? This is my case. It’s been decided in my favour. I won’t permit it!”

Sargent only addressed the Court as he answered,

“Nevertheless, I withdraw the motion.”

The Justice looked steadily at the lawyer’s face, and his gaze was not without a trace of approval.

“I must warn you, Counsellor,” he said at length, “that this is very unusual. It is a most serious matter.”