A defendant in a lawsuit involving a large sum of money was talking to his lawyer.

“If I lose the case, I’ll be ruined,” he said.

“It’s in the judge’s hands now,” said the lawyer.

“Would it help if I sent the judge a box of cigars?”

“Oh, no,” said the lawyer.

“This judge is a stickler for ethical behavior. A stunt like that would prejudice him against you. He might even hold you in contempt of court. In fact, you shouldn’t even smile at the judge.”

Within the course of time, the judge rendered a decision in favor of the defendant.

As the defendant left the courthouse with his lawyer he said, “Thanks for the tip about the cigars. It worked.”

“I’m sure we would have lost the case if you had sent them.”

“But I did send them.”

“You did?”

“Yes. That is how we won the case.”

“I don’t understand,” said the lawyer.

“It’s easy. I sent the cigars to the judge, but enclosed my opponent’s business card.”