The Navy lawyer did not flinch; he spoke simply.

"As the only motive, yes," said the Navy lawyer pensively.

The porter left and the Navy lawyer stared at Joel.

The Navy lawyer went to the door and opened it.

Joel held his place in front of the Navy lawyer.

The Navy lawyer crossed to the phone and picked it up.

The Navy lawyer hung up, his hand for a moment remaining on the telephone.

Converse could hear the Navy lawyer talking conversationally; he turned and walked back into the room.

"With justification," said the Navy lawyer, the two words spiraling quietly off into the air of the sunlit room.

Anyone who believed those claims should consider the fate of the Navy lawyer whose integrity helped spark that debate in the first place.