“This is outrageous,” Smithers protests. “Your Honor, Mr. Noskov has been remiss in his duties. He has had the audacity toarrive late and waste this court’s time. I ask that he be held in contempt of—”
Just as Smithers is about to finish his sentence, the courtroom clock strikes nine.
“I think we can dispense with the outrage, counsel,” the judge sighs, waving away whatever Smithers was going to say next.“We all know Mr. Noskov likes to make an entrance. Now, tell me, Mr. Noskov: are you ready?”
“I was born ready, Your Honor.” He says it with a hint of cockiness, like he’s quoting a bad cliché on purpose.
The judge looks even more exhausted by him. “Yes, yes, we are all in awe. Now, if you please…”
Smithers begins his pompous opening statement. It goes on forever, detailing my appall
