Page:The New Yorker 0003, 1925-03-07.pdf/5

THE NEW YORKER dignified Times, passed his days and nights in consultation with twelve-count 'em, twelve-lawyers. It did look like a great story: woman locked in her home; refused food; denied communication with the outside world; on the point of starvation; shut off from her friends--great stuff!

Only, it wasn't exactly so. She could have had all the food she wanted. She could see anyone except reporters. She could telephone anyone she wished except reporters. She could walk out of the apartment any time--the sooner the better for Mr. Budlong. But Mrs. Budlong was interested only in seeing re- porters and staying where she was, so she resorted to the expedient of throwing notes, wrapped in Mr. Budlong's silk shirts, from her window to the battalion of reporters. The operatives diverted themselves by throwing notes out, also, which were dirty even before they landed in the gutter.

The week's duty done and her defense against a possible charge of desertion prepared, Mrs. Budlong issued forth, pausing only to repay the American by giving to "our Mr. Helm" a further exclusive story.

The first pages of the Times and of the other dignified newspapers reverted to normal, so to remain until some other misunderstood lady appeals for succor to "Beekman 2,000."-J.M.

A Passing Parade Disturbs a Writing Gentleman