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"The radical methods of the Jew," added Diederich. "He never hesitates to shove himself forward—although I do not deny that he believes he is discharging a patriotic and a professional duty."

"How do you mean?" cried Diederich. "A vulgar upstart who is trafficking in our most sacred possessions!" "That's putting it in rather strong terms"—Fritzsche gave a smile of satisfaction, and drew his chair nearer. "Suppose I were the judge in charge of the inquiry. There are cases in which one is justified, to a certain degree, in handing in one's resignation." "You are a close friend of the Lauer family," said Diederich, nodding significantly. Fritzsche assumed the air of a man of the world. "But, you understand, in so doing I would definitely confirm certain rumours."

"That won't do," said Diederich. "It would be contrary to the code of honour."

"Then I have no choice but to do my duty, quietly and impartially." "To be impartial is to be German," said Diederich.

"Especially as I may assume that the witnesses will not render my task unnecessarily difficult." Diederich laid his hand on his heart. "Judge Fritzsche, one may be carried away where great issues are at stake. I have an impulsive nature, but I am aware that I owe an accounting to God for everything." He dropped his eyes. Then, in manly tones: "I too am susceptible to remorse." This appeared to be enough for Fritzsche, for he paid the bill. The two gentlemen shook hands solemnly and in perfect understanding.

The very next day Diederich was called before the judge in charge of the inquiry, and found himself in the presence of Fritzsche. "Thank God," he said to himself, and he made his statement in a spirit of honest impartiality. Fritzsche's only care seemed also to be the truth. Public opinion, it is true, lost none of its partiality for the accused. Apart from the Social Democrat newspaper, it reached the point of