Throwing in the towel

Once upon a time three stone masons were asked, one after the other, what they were doing. The first, without looking up, answered, “Earning my living.” The second replied, “I am shaping this stone to pattern.” The third lifted his eyes and said, “I am building a Cathedral.” So it is with the men of the law at labor before the Court. The attitude and preparation of some show that they have no conception of their effort higher than to make a living. Others are dutiful but uninspired in trying to shape their little cases to a winning pattern. But it lifts up the heart of a judge when an advocate stands at the bar who knows that he is building a Cathedral.”