Note 80 — ANECDOTES OF IRISH JUDGES.

The Irish attorneys had, I believe, then pretty much the same reputation and popularity enjoyed by their tribe throughout the United Kingdom. They have now, in each country, wisely changed their designation into that of solicitors. I recollect one anecdote, which will, I think, apply pretty well to the major part of that celebrated profession. Some years ago, a suitor in the Court of Exchequer complained in person to the chief baron, that he was quite ruinated, and could go on no further! “Then,” said Lord Yelverton, “you had better leave the matter to be decided by reference.”—“To be sure I will, my lord,” said the plaintiff: “I’ve been now at law thirteen years, and can’t get on at all! I’m willing, please your lordship, to leave it all either to one honest man or two attorneys, whichever your lordship pleases.”—“You had better toss up, head or harp, for that,” said Lord Yelverton, laughing. Two attorneys were however appointed, and, in less than a year, reported that “they could not agree:” both parties then declared, they would leave the matter to a very honest farmer, a neighbour of theirs. They did so, and, in about a week, came hand-in-hand to the court, thanked his lordship, and told him their neighbour had settled the whole affair square and straight to their entire satisfaction! Lord Yelverton used to tell the anecdote with great glee.