, &c.
The court took the same view, and lectured Geoffrey severely. Every
counsel in a case, the Court remembered, when It was at the Bar, used to
be able to open that case at a moment's notice, and though things had,
It implied, no doubt deteriorated to a considerable extent since
those palmy days, every counsel ought still to be prepared to do so on
emergency.
Of course, however, if he, Geoffrey, told the court that he was
absolutely unprepared to go on with the case, It would have no option
but to grant an adjournment.
"I am perfectly prepared to go on with it, my lord," Geoffrey interposed
calmly.
"Very well," said the Court in a mollified tone, "then go on! I have no
doubt that the learned Attorney-General will arrive presently."
Then, as is not unusual in a probate suit, followed an argument as to
who should open it, the plaintiff or the defendant. Geoffrey claimed
that this right clearly lay with him, and the opposing counsel raised no
great objection, thinking that they would do well to leave the opening
in the hands of a rather inexperienced man, who would very likely
work his side more harm than good.
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