did so, he found that the new man on the Republic still held his
ground.


"Could I have a word with you, sir?" the stranger asked. The
reporters halted jealously. Again Gaylor showed his impatience.

"About Mr. Hallowell's health?" he demanded. "There's nothing
more to say."

"No, it's not about his health," ventured the reporter.

"Well, not now. I am very late this morning." The Judge again
moved to the bedroom and the reporter, as though accepting the
verdict, started to follow the others. As he did so, as though
in explanation or as a warning he added: "You said to always
come to you for the facts." The lawyer halted, hesitated. "What
facts do you want?" he asked. The reporter bowed, and waved his
broad felt hat toward the listening men. In polite embarrassment
he explained what he had to say could not be spoken in their
presence.

Something in the manner of the stranger led Judge Gaylor to
pause. He directed Garrett to accompany the reporters from the
room. Then, with mock politeness, he turned to the one who
remained. "I take it, you are a new comer in New York
journalism. What is your name?" he asked.

"My name is Homer Lee," said the Southerner. "I am a New Orleans
boy. I've been only a month in your city. Judge," he began