A SHREWD LAWYER.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2132, 2 December 1890, Page 3

A SHREWD LAWYER.

u When I was in Arabia,” said Alexander Konta, whose home is under his hat, “ I was told a story,” and he was addressing himself to a representative of the St. Louis Eepublic, ” which illustrates the resources of the Arabian lawyer, and which mar offer some suggestions to

the legal profession in this country. An English gentleman, staying at an inn in one of the smaller towns, placed on deoosit with the landlord £BOO He neglected to take a receipt for the money, and when a few weeks later, haring been absent on a short journey, he had occasion to ask for it, the landlord opened his eyes with well-feigned , astonishment and pretended to have forgotten the transaction. The Englishman was naturally enraged, but he had no proof and no witness, and in his extremity he sought the advice of a lawyer. The wise man of the East refected a moment, and then gravely said, ‘ Entrust another £3OO to the keeping of the landlord, but be sure to bare a witness on hand.’

The Englishman was puzzled to know how this would help him, but he did as he was directed. ‘Now,’said the lawyer the next day, ‘ go and claim your money, but don’t take your witness with you.’ This was done, and the innkeeper, ill-prepared to practice the same deceit the second time, handed over the notes. The traveller once more sought bis legal adviser, who said to him, ‘lt is well. Approach your host again, accompanied by your witness, and demand your money.’ ‘ But I gave you your money,’ protested his host. ‘ Come now,’ replied the merchant, ' here is a man who was present at the time. He will tell you that he was not a witness of what you claim. He saw me hand you the money, Be quick, please; I must leave the city.’ The landlord was outwitted. He saw the trap, but it was too late, and without more ado be made good the sum.”