“All it is intended to accomplish, judge. We must give the men up there time and opportunity. Before summer is over we shall hear from them.” They then began a conversation upon the defences of New York, and Leonard described the work going forward on Hendrick’s reef, and at Navesink. “There are more than eight hundred Jersey Blues on the heights,” he said, “and the telegraph on the Highlands is ready to work. General Izard is an active and zealous officer.” Having exhausted this subject, the judge suddenly became personal, and with an abruptness that startled Leonard, asked: “How are you spending these fine winter days, Mr. Murray? Tell me, if my question is not an intrusive one.” “Indeed, sir, I consider it a great honour. And advice from you, at this time, would be of more service than you can imagine.” “If you will take it; but most people ask advice only that it may confirm them in the thing they have already resolved to do.” “I will ask your advice, sir. It cannot but be better than my own opinion.” Then Leonard explained his intention with regard to the study of the law regulating real estate, and Judge Bloommaert listened with attention and evident satisfaction. “It will be a good thing for you to do, Mr. Murray,” he answered, when Leonard ceased speaking. “You ought not to be idle, even if you can afford it; and this study will not only employ your time, it will eventually save you much money. Go and see Mr. Vanderlyn. Perhaps he may let you read with him. No one knows more about real estate.” “I have been told, sir, that Mr. Burr is the greatest authority on that subject.” “Mr. Burr is out of consideration.” “I confess, sir, that I have already considered him.” “Have you spoken to him?” “Not definitely.” “Mr. Murray, if you sit in Mr. Burr’s office, you will soon share his opinions. And in such case, I should be compelled to forbid you the society of myself and family. You cannot touch pitch and not be defiled.” He spoke with rising anger, and Leonard answered as softly as possible: “Judge, I ask your advice in this matter. I have already told you I would take it. Can we not talk of Mr. Burr as reasonably as of the war and our defences? I am open to conviction, and free to confess that I do not see what Mr. Burr has done to merit the ostracism he is receiving from certain parties. I suppose it is one of the accidents of his fate, a paradox--and life is full of paradoxes.” “Mr. Burr’s ostracism is no accident, it is his own act. The man has committed a crime, and the interpretation thereof is written on everything he does.” “You mean his duel with Mr. Hamilton? Sir, if Mr. Hamilton had killed Mr. Burr, would the Federalists have considered it a crime?” “Mr. Hamilton’s case is out of our jurisdiction. It is gone to a higher court.” “Is not that special pleading, judge?” “It will do for the case.”