gave him a quick, almost imperceptible, nod of encouragement.
Bert found a vacant place on the first bench and slid into a seat. Back of him arose a quick murmur of voices; his ears burned. Seated behind a high desk, Judge Manning held an animated discussion with Policeman Glynn. Promptly at eight o'clock the judge rapped sharply with a gavel, and as though by magic the murmur of voices ceased.
"This court," the judge announced, "is now in session."
The first case had to do with a man who had not cleaned snow and ice from his sidewalk.
"Any excuse?" the judge demanded.
The man had none.
"Two dollars fine. After this hire a boy to shovel your walk for seventy-five cents. It's cheaper, and may save somebody a broken leg. Next case, the State against Fred Ralston, charge reckless driving. Officer Glynn, you made the arrest. Be sworn."
Officer Glynn took oath to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Ralston, it appeared, had driven his automobile up on the sidewalk, and had narrowly missed hitting a woman and a child.
"Well, Fred," said the judge, "how about this? Was the road so narrow you couldn't see it?"
