CHAPTER XXI
A PLEA FOR JUSTICE
Stuart was not surprised to receive notice from Bivens's lawyers that they would demand sentence on Woodman within two days.
The financier was present with two great lawyers who smilingly assured him that he need have no fear as to the result. Yet the little man was uneasy. He fidgeted in his seat and watched Stuart's calm serious face with dread.
"Don't worry," the senior counsel assured him with confidence. "The old Recorder is a terror to every criminal in New York. Stuart's plea can only be a formal request for mercy, which he will not get."
In spite of all assurance, Bivens's nervousness increased as the hour drew near for the case to be called. He looked at his watch, fuming over the fact that Nan was late. He wished her to see Stuart and find out what he had up his sleeve. A woman could do such tricks better than a man. He looked out the window anxiously, and saw the flash of his big French limousine rounding the corner. He hurried to the steps to meet his wife.
"Nan, for heaven's sake see Jim before this case is called and find out what he's going to say to that judge."
"I'll do my best. I'll send my card in and ask him to see me at once."
"Good. When he returns to the court room wait, and I'll come out."
Bivens went back to his seat beside his lawyers and watched the court officer speak to Stuart.