The expression was unfortunate and Gordon blazed up instantly.
“I see nothing absurd about it, Sir. I ask you for time to ascertain this man’s guilt or his innocence which cannot now be properly determined.—Do you mind telling me just why this seems absurd to the District Attorney?”
The speaker’s tone and manner would have nettled a man less on his guard, but Willard only laughed pleasantly as he answered:
“The District Attorney’s office is satisfied to proceed, and you will admit the case must be fairly strong when we are undaunted by the presence of distinguished counsel.”
“This is no matter for jests, Mr. Willard. Do you consider that the duty of the District Attorney is to convict as many persons as possible—to win as many cases as you can?”
“O come, come, Mr. Gordon, we are not here to discuss ethical questions.”
“Mr. Willard, I am not here to be trifled with or side-tracked. Will you tell me what investigations you have made to ascertain if this man is innocent or not?”
The District Attorney leaned back wearily in his chair and gazed at the earnest face confronting him. Then he lazily reached for a cigarette.
“I am trying to keep my temper and be polite,” he replied, “but you surely do not expect me to detail my case to my adversary?”
“Your case? Is that how you term the solemn duty you are charged with? Does the District Attorney condescend to tricks—does he hope to make convictions by surprise?”