The Attorney's Brawl: A Legal Dust-Up in Probate Court

An unfortunate misunderstanding took place yesterday between George Hyde Preston and James H. Metcalfe, two well-known attorneys at the office of the Probate Judge, which would doubtless have resulted seriously but for the interference of bystanders. It seems that the attorneys represented different interests in the estate of the late Daniel McKeon, and were settling up the accounts, when a disagreement arose over the amount Mr. Young should be allowed as compensation for the business done for Mr. McKeon's estate. During this conversation, which was quite animated, Mr. Metcalfe made a statement which Mr. Preston characterized as false, whereupon Mr. Preston struck his brother attorney in the face with his open hand. Mr. Preston appeared to resent the blow in a like manner but was prevented by Deputy W. D. Wood and others. He remained angry, however, and going out he notified his fellow attorney for Mr. Metcalfe to appear. As the latter came down stairs Mr. Preston rushed at him and said, 'Now, do it!' and Mr. Metcalfe made an attempt to comply with the request, when Mr. Preston went for him, a la John L. Sullivan. He let out with his right at Mr. Metcalfe's vital organ, but Mr. Metcalfe, moving forward and ducking, avoided the blow, which fell on Mr. Smith's shoulder. Mr. Smith and Deputy Wood separated further hostilities, and by their advice and intervention, Mr. Preston was persuaded to go to the City Hall, while Mr. Metcalfe went to his office. While it is likely they may yet settle the matter in the Supreme Court, it is reported that hard feelings exist between them.