"We are happy if we are good."
"He was one of the best and therefore one of the saddest of men."
But why multiply examples. Many—and different ones—will occur to every thinking mind, while illustrations of the particular fictions of fiction, which have gone farthest to cripple you or your neighbor, will present themselves without more suggestions.
A DAY IN COURT
I. CRIMINAL COURT.
To those accustomed to the atmosphere and tone of a court room, it is doubtful if its message is impressive. To one who spends a day in a criminal court for the first time after reaching an age of thoughtfulness, it is more than impressive; it is a revelation not easily forgotten. The message conveyed to such an observer arouses questions, and suggests thoughts which may be of interest to thousands to whom a criminal court room is merely a name. I went early. I was told by the officer at the door that it was the summing up of a homicide case. "Are you a witness?" he asked when I inquired if I was at liberty to enter. "Were you subpoenaed?"
"No," I replied, "I simply wish to listen, if I may, to the court proceedings. I am told that I am at liberty to do so."
He eyed me closely, but opened the door. Just as I was about to pass in he bent forward and asked quickly: