"Madame Dubois is calling you an angel, sent from God, and she is praying for your success in court today. She is asking; if you are now ready to believe in God?"
Roy lied. "Tell her, I'm not sure, but I'm trying."
After the translation both Mr. and Mrs. Dubois each embraced Roy and kissed both cheeks, causing Roy to blush. A man had never hugged or kissed Roy before. As everyone departed, Mr. Dubois left one last comment.
"Via la liberté Monsieur Folsom!"
"To your freedom Monsieur Folsom," the translator said.
Later that morning, Roy entered the court, and everyone else was in already their seats. As he sat down in his chair, he realized he had eaten too much and was slightly uncomfortable. Further complicating Roy's physical condition, was a knot of fear he felt in the pit of his stomach. At the appointed time, his defense attorney, Major Watkins, stood to his feet.
"On behalf of my client, we wish to state the facts. None of the evidence presented during this trial indicates any guilt of murder. Corporal Folsom's actions were to ensure the safety of the village, as directed by the very sergeant who attacked Madame Dubois. Corporal Folsom's actions were consistent with self-defense because Sergeant Fassbender discharged his weapon at Corporal Folsom first, and he abused Madame Dubois. Sergeant Fassbender's conduct was unbecoming of a soldier and poorly represented the United States, especially in a foreign country. The sergeant's actions were embarrassing and morally wrong. Therefore, we request this court to drop all charges against my client and expunge his record of this incident."
While Major Watkins spoke to the court, the translator stood in front of the villagers and quickly interpreted the words into French. The villagers jumped to their feet and started cheering as if their local sports team had won a championship.
"Order, please, order," cried the general as he smacked the gavel on the table several times.
Smiling, Major Watkins continued. "Furthermore, it is our request, that this panel of judges consider a medal for Corporal Folsom, for his brave actions to save Madame Dubois."
The room erupted into cheering and applause. Again, the general requested orderly conduct by everyone present while cracking the gavel hard against its block. Standing, the general barked out further commands.
"Every one of you, sit down immediately."
Like children being reprimanded, the room fell silent, and the people sat down in their seats. The general sternly scanned the room, making eye contact with each individual as their chairs moved across the hardwood floor. Then slowly, he sat down.
"That's better. This court is to remain in place while the judges deliberate their decision."