CHAPTER XIX 



COURTS AND CORRUPTION 



On the afternoon of that dreadful day of 

 panic when I decided that I dare not draw an- 

 other check, I thought to immediately interview 

 the larger creditors, seeing as many as possible 

 during that night and pointing out how little for- 

 bearance and support were needed to carry us 

 all through any possible panic. I was weakened 

 in spirit by the suddenness of the impending ca- 

 lamity and I needed the support of a virile mind 

 in the quick campaign I proposed. Unhappily 

 I made the fatal mistake of consulting counsel 

 and it was solemnly urged upon me that in such a 

 storm one should place himself under the protec- 

 tion of the court through an assignment and the 

 appointment of a receiver. This, I was assured, 

 would conserve my resources, prevent any attack 

 upon them and give me rest and time to marshal 



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