Page:H.M. The Patrioteer.djvu/197

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"That is not the real reason. It is chiefly because I have undertaken the defence of my brother-in-law, Lauer."

"You are &hellip;? In the Lauer case &hellip;?" It took Diederich's breath away and he came to a standstill.

"Well, why not?" said Buck, shrugging his shoulders. "Does that surprise you? I have recently been admitted to practice at the Netzig County Court. Did my father not tell you about it?"

"I rarely see your father. &hellip; I don't go out much. Business cares. &hellip; My sister's engagement. &hellip;" Diederich began to stammer incoherently. "Then you must often. Perhaps you are settled here altogether?"

"Only temporarily—I fancy."

Diederich pulled himself together. "I must say, I have often failed to understand you properly, but never so little as now when we have been walking half way through Netzig together." Buck blinked at him. "Because in the trial to-morrow I am counsel for the accused and you are the chief witness for the prosecution? That is just chance. The situation might just as well have been reversed."

"I beg your pardon!" cried Diederich, indignantly. "Every man in his right place. If you have no respect for your profession—"

"Respect? What do you mean? I am delighted to act for the defence. I do not deny it. I shall let myself go and give the people something for their money. I shall have unpleasant things to say to you, Dr. Hessling. I trust you will take everything in good part. It is part of my profession."

Diederich grew frightened. "Pardon me, do you know my sworn statement? It is by no means unfavourable to Lauer."

"Leave all that to me." There was a threatening touch of irony in Buck's attitude.

By this time they had reached Meisestrasse. "The trial!" thought Diederich breathlessly. He had completely forgotten it in the excitement of the last few days. Now he felt as