At Large - One Temper

A turbulent individual was brought before a judge to stand trial for assault with intent to commit murder. It was established that he had been variously obstreperous without apparent provocation, had impacted several unfortunate citizens with the trunk of a small tree, and had subsequently wreaked havoc throughout the town.

In an attempt to mitigate these misdeeds, the defendant's attorney suddenly turned to the judge and asked, "Did your Honor ever lose your temper?"

"I fine you twenty-five dollars for contempt of court!" roared the judge, filled with wrath. "How dare you mention the loss of my temper in connection with this case?"

After a brief moment of silence, the attorney replied meekly, "I thought my client might perhaps have found it."