"Oh, yes, I'm sure. But let me suggest something more pro bono sui. You are, after all, a lawyer. Let me appeal to your better instincts. Let us assume, for the moment, that I am not accustomed to expose myself to public scrutiny. Let's assume that, although I am convinced of my own innocence and my ability to convince the court even if it takes years, let's assume that I would prefer not to go to court, not to achieve that notoriety. I live in the country, far from prying eyes. I'm a shy man."
"Please, Mr. Smith."
"Okay. What would it take to encourage you to drop the claim against me?"
"I haven't the slightest idea what you're talking about."
"Yes you do," said John Smith. "A million?"
Stansfield Gaines looked evenly at the man tilted forward on the edge of the chair before him, but
