Page 279 - the-idiot

roubles….’
‘It was to be fifty if I won the case, only five if I lost,’ inter-
rupted Lebedeff, speaking in a low tone, a great contrast to
his earlier manner.
‘Well! naturally he came to grief: the law is not admin-
istered as it used to be, and he only got laughed at for his
pains. But he was much pleased with himself in spite of
that. ‘Most learned judge!’ said he, ‘picture this unhappy
man, crippled by age and infirmities, who gains his living
by honourable toil—picture him, I repeat, robbed of his all,
of his last mouthful; remember, I entreat you, the words of
that learned legislator, ‘Let mercy and justice alike rule the
courts of law.‘ Now, would you believe it, excellency, every
morning he recites this speech to us from beginning to end,
exactly as he spoke it before the magistrate. To-day we have
heard it for the fifth time. He was just starting again when
you arrived, so much does he admire it. He is now prepar-
ing to undertake another case. I think, by the way, that you
are Prince Muishkin? Colia tells me you are the cleverest
man he has ever known….’
‘The cleverest in the world,’ interrupted his uncle hastily.
‘I do not pay much attention to that opinion,’ continued
the young man calmly. ‘Colia is very fond of you, but he,’
pointing to Lebedeff, ‘is flattering you. I can assure you I
have no intention of flattering you, or anyone else, but at
least you have some common-sense. Well, will you judge
between us? Shall we ask the prince to act as arbitrator?’ he
went on, addressing his uncle.
‘I am so glad you chanced to come here, prince.’

The Idiot