“Gentlemen, court will take a recess until two o’clock this afternoon. We will depart forthwith for Dr. Londonberry’s sanitarium. The court will ask the bailiff to see that the sheriff’s office furnishes transportation for Dr. Londonberry and the parties in the case. The court specifically warns anyone that any attempt to communicate with the sanitarium and prepare the persons in charge for the tour of inspection which is to be made will be considered as contempt of court.”
“But, Your Honor,” counsel shouted in protest. “This man is...”
“Sit down,” Judge Treadwell said. “The court has made its order. Court is adjourned until two o’clock this afternoon.”
The bailiff banged his gavel. Judge Treadwell marched with judicial dignity down the steps of the rostrum and through the door into chambers.
Some thirty minutes later, Mason parked his car in front of the sanitarium. The sheriff’s car with Judge Treadwell, Freeman Leeds, Jason Carrel, Dr. Londonberry, and the attorney was waiting at the curb.
“Very well,” Judge Treadwell said, “it appearing that the interested parties are here, we will now enter the sanitarium. Lead the way, Doctor, and please remember that we wish to drop in on the patient unannounced. I wish to see conditions as they are.”
They entered the sanitarium.
Dr. Londonberry, as ruffled and indignant as a wet cat, led the way down a long corridor. A nurse, in a white, starched uniform came forward. “The key to thirty-five please,” Dr. Londonberry said.
“You keep that door locked?” Judge Treadwell asked.
“Yes, we do,” Dr. Londonberry said. “All he has to do is press a button when he wants anything. With patients of this sort, it’s imperative to keep them quiet.”