His Lordship. Can you quote a case?
Exp. C. I can, at any rate, refer to an opinion.
His Lordship. Has it been reported?
Exp. C. Certainly, my Lord. You will find it in the Reports of the Hardwicke Society. Lord Chief Justice Russell of Killowen has laid it down that snuff is a most valuable assistance to the proper dispensation of justice. His Lordship has declared that the inhaling of prepared tobacco through the nostrils "clears the judicial brain, predisposes it to calmness and impartiality, and enables a learned judge to listen with patience to the most fluent and prolific of forensic orators." If your Lordship pleases.
[Offers snuff-box to the Judge.
His Lordship (after taking a pinch). Well, certainly the point you have raised seems clearer to me than it did. (After a few moments of consideration.) I will reserve the case for further consideration, and will deliver judgment later.
Exp. C. As your Lordship pleases. I will ask the usher to hand my authorities to your Lordship.
His Lordship (receiving snuff-box). You are very good. I will not overlook their assistance in coming to a conclusion. I hope the occasion may never arise when I might be compelled, as the vulgar tongue expresses it, to "give you snuff."
[Scene closes upon mutual courtesies.