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Sandra Wagner-Wright
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Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
Literature & Fiction
Author Insight
Mary considers filing a lawsuit
Mary is at her wit's end. She needs to persuade William Hastie to withdraw his endorsement of the libelous letters, but the man won't even answer her notes. Mary suggests her solicitor approach Hastie, but Mr. Carruthers thinks she needs to exert more pressure if she wants Hastie to recant. Mr. Carruthers says she should threaten Hastie with a public lawsuit. Of course, such action would harm Mary as much as her enemy. In 1883 the very idea of a woman bringing a public lawsuit is scandalous, plus the letters would be public. Preparing the lawsuit could bring the needed leverage against Hastie, but it could also make Mary's position worse than it is.
Book Excerpt
Two Coins: A Biographical Novel (Women of Determination and Courage)
“You’re in a serious situation,” Mr. Carruthers reminds me as if there’s a chance I’ve forgotten my dire circumstances, “one that can destroy your reputation. With nothing to lose, there’s no reason for Mr. Hastie to withdraw his statement.”
“But a lawsuit? Won’t that make everything public?”
“It will, which is why you must consider the possibility from all sides. The fact that we draw up the suit doesn’t mean we’ll file it. But if Reverend Hastie refuses to recant, it will be your only alternative if you wish to restore your reputation. To the extent such a remedy is viable. Do you understand?”
Sweat pours down my face as I gather my thoughts. “But, Mr. Carruthers, the letters are private now. No one knows their contents. Won’t I be in a worse situation if they become public?”
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