Thread: Crux of the Matter

As a young lawyer working on my first big case, I was sitting in
Federal District Court watching a prominent attorney question a
witness. The attorney was trying, unsuccessfully, to elicit certain
information.

Finally the judge turned to the witness and asked a question that
prompted the appropriate response.

"Thank you, your honor," the attorney said. "How is it that you were
able to get to the crux of the matter with one question after I had
tried three times?"

"Easy," replied the judge. "I'm not paid by the hour."