It read as follows: JUDGE ROSSMORE IMPEACHED JUSTICE OF THE SUPREME COURT TO BE TRIED ON BRIBERY CHARGES The despatch, which was dated Washington two weeks back, went on to say that serious charges affecting the integrity of Judge Rossmore had been made the subject of Congressional inquiry, and that the result of the inquiry was so grave that a demand for impeachment would be at once sent to the Senate.

It added that the charges grew out of the recent decision in the Great Northwestern Mining Company case, it being alleged that Judge Rossmore had accepted a large sum of money on condition of his handing down a decision favourable to the company.
Jefferson was thunderstruck.

He read the despatch over again to make sure there was no mistake.

No, it was very plain--Judge Rossmore of Madison Avenue.

But how preposterous, what a calumny! The one judge on the bench at whom one could point and say with absolute conviction: "There goes an honest man!" And this judge was to be tried on a charge of bribery! What could be the meaning of it?
Something terrible must have happened since Shirley's departure from home, that was certain.