Peter followed him, calmly. "Mr. Nelson," he said, "do you intend to
push that case?"

"Of course," smiled Nelson. "After I've finished four hundred
indictments that precede it."

"Not till then?"

"No."

"Mr. Nelson, can't you overlook politics for a moment, and think of--"

"Who said anything of politics?" interrupted Nelson, "I merely tell you
there are indictments which have been in my office for five years and
are yet to be tried, and that your case is going to take its turn."
Nelson passed into the back room, leaving his caller alone.

Peter left the room, and passed out of the front door, just as a man was
about to ring the bell.

"Is Mr. Nelson in?" asked the man.

"I have just left him, Mr. Dummer," said Peter.

"Ah! Good-evening, Mr. Stirling. I think I can guess your business.
Well. How do you come on?" Dummer was obviously laughing internally.

Peter started down the steps without answering.

"Perhaps I can help you?" said Dummer. "I know Mr. Nelson very well in