“‘Proceed, proceed, brother Selim,’ said the Judge with geniality.
“‘Do you or do you not suffer from the itch?’
“‘My lord,’ said I, ‘am I really to reply to——’
“His Holiness interrupted me with a violence which I little expected from one in so exalted a position. ‘Answer the question!’ he shouted, ‘answer the question at once!’
“‘Well,’ said I, ‘to tell the truth, I have some little affection of the sole of my left foot, but I conceive that with careful attention and proper medical advice——’
“‘That will do,’ said the Pleader, putting up his hand. ‘We have heard all we need to hear,’ and he sat down again upon his mat.
“‘Any rebulgence?’ said His Holiness, looking round with a pleasant smile upon all assembled.
“I had no idea what was meant, but my friend the Scrivener passed me up a little note, saying, ‘Do you carefully re-examine yourself so as to undo the effect of this terrible cross-examination.’
“It was all Greek to me, but grasping at a straw I addressed His Holiness, and said:
“‘Oh, Voice of God and Justice upon earth! I would like to ask myself certain questions.’