“Why, when we refer a case to an umpire for decision,” said Beechnut, “it is always best, when we can, to state the principle of the question in general terms, so that he can decide it in the abstract, without knowing who the real parties are, and how they are to be affected by his decision. Here’s Mr. Wallace now, who would not like very well to decide in favor of his brother and against you, even if he thought that his brother was in the right. But by not letting him know any thing but the general principle he can decide just as he thinks, without fear that you would think him partial.”
“Well,” said Phonny, “I will carry him the paper.”
“You must only give him the paper,” said Beechnut, “and not tell him any thing about the case yourself.”
“No,” said Phonny, “I will not.”
“For if you do,” continued Beechnut, “he will know who the parties are, and then he will not like to decide the question.”
“Well,” said Phonny, “I will not tell him.”
“Let Stuyvesant go with you,” said Beechnut.
“Well,” said Phonny.
Phonny accordingly took the paper and went into the house with Stuyvesant. He led the way up into his cousin Wallace’s room. He found Wallace seated at his table in his alcove, where he usually studied. The curtains were both up, which was the signal that Phonny might go and speak to him.
Phonny and Stuyvesant accordingly walked up to the table, and Wallace asked them if they wished to speak to him.