Coincident with the asking of the question, Judge Treadwell leaned across the bench to stare at the witness.
Dr. Londonberry, startled, glanced up at the judge, then suddenly became confused. “Of course,” he said, “an arcus senilis is not in itself indicative of psychosis. It is a symptom.”
“Symptom of what?” Judge Treadwell asked acidly.
“A symptom of physical deterioration which, taken in connection with other symptoms, may indicate a mental deterioration.”
“In other words,” Judge Treadwell said, “if I should be taking a ride in an automobile, and two male nurses dragged me from the car, and I showed intense anger, that, coupled with my arcus senilis, would lead you to believe I was suffering from senile dementia, would it not?”
The witness fidgeted uneasily and said, “I hardly think that’s a fair question, Your Honor.”
“For your information,” Judge Treadwell said, “I have had this arcus senilis for the last twenty-two years, and for your further information, I would be very much inclined to resent a highhanded interference with my liberties by any male nurses at your institution, Doctor.” He turned to Mason. “Are there any other questions, counselor?”
“None, Your Honor.”
Judge Treadwell leaned forward. “The court thinks this examination has gone far enough. The court doesn’t mind stating that this is merely another one of those cases in which a man, somewhat past the prime of life, is very apparently imposed upon by greedy and officious relatives, whose affection is predicated primarily on a financial consideration, and who are impatient that the object of their so-called affection is sufficiently inconsiderate to postpone shuffling the mortal coil, leaving behind, of course, a favorable will.
“Now the court is not in the least impressed with Dr. Londonberry’s reason for not producing Alden Leeds in court. This court is getting more than a little out of patience with persons who feel that a judicial order is of no more importance than a tag for the violation of a parking ordinance. The court is going forthwith to Dr. Londonberry’s sanitarium and examine the patient. If the court feels there is any necessity for doing so, the court will retain some reputable psychiatrist to pass upon the condition of Alden Leeds. If it appears that Alden Leeds is in the possession of his mental faculties to the extent usually found in a man of his years, the court is going to take drastic action for the flagrant and deliberate disregard of the court’s order to produce the said Alden Leeds in court at this hour.