She looked up with a smile, and then, though with a little shame, displayed the precipe.
"Well, that's good," said Mr. Juddson. "Accident case, I suppose. What is it? Death, and damages for the widow?—for I see there are no children,—or was the plaintiff herself the victim of the accident? Your sex has finally decided to stand by you, it seems."
"I shan't send out the writ just yet," said Mrs. Tarbell, blushing. "I was—wanted to see how the precipe would look. I must see the plaintiff again, I think, before I advise her definitely to sue."
"Hasn't she a case?"
"Yes—but—"
"What nonsense!" cried Juddson. "Come, my dear, don't be a goose, and don't lose a return-day. Otherwise, I shall buy you a sewing-machine."
"Aren't you pleased, Alexander?" said Mrs. Tarbell, with a little effusion.
"My dear, I'm delighted. I hope that in five years' time you will be supporting me and my family. Your sister-in-law will be speechless with jealousy. I congratulate you. Hum—The Blank and Dash Avenues Company? Well, you won't have to send John very far with your copies of the pleadings. Pope was appointed attorney for the company last week, in place of old Slyther, who resigned, you know."
"Pope?" said Mrs. Tarbell.
"Yes,—the Honorable Franklin."