He turned into an imposing looking hotel on Broadway, produced his card, and asked for the manager.
An affable clerk hurried forward, thinking that his house was about to earn new laurels; if somewhat surprised by the Earl's explanation that he was in need of a lawyer of repute, and had applied to the proprietor of an important hotel as one most likely to further the quest, he responded with prompt civility.
"There are several lawyers guests in the hotel at this moment, my lord," he said.

"Each is a notable man in one branch of practice or another.

May I ask if you want advice in a matter of real estate, or some commercial claim, or a criminal charge ?" "The latter, in a sense," said the Earl.

"A relative of mine has contracted a marriage under conditions which are illegal, or, at any rate, most irregular." The clerk stroked his chin.
"Mr.Otto Schmidt has just concluded a remarkable nullity of marriage suit," he pondered.
"Just the man for my purpose.

Is he in ?" Within five minutes the Earl was closeted with Mr.Otto Schmidt in the latter's private sitting-room.