"Mr. Rump," said the sheriff, "the jury have requested me to inform you that they are ready to hear anything which you have to say. You are entitled to the closing argument."
"I can't make a speech," said Rump; "and my lawyer has run away."
"Then the case is submitted for the decision of the jury without further argument," said the sheriff.
Rump mournfully nodded his head in acquiescence. Whereupon the twelve peers arose from their seats, and walked aside in consultation. They soon returned, and rendered a verdict for the defendant. Rump had to pay the costs, which amounted to one hundred dollars. He pulled out his pocket-book, and handed ninety dollars to the sheriff.
"Ten dollars more," said the sheriff.
"Mr. Pate will pay the other ten dollars," said Simon.
"How so?" asked the sheriff.
"He was to get one-tenth of the money recovered," said Rump.
"Well?"
"As we have lost the case, he should pay one-tenth of the costs."