"Colonel Starbottle's Client" is a short story written by Bret Harte, an American author and poet known for his contributions to Western literature. The story is part of Harte's larger body of work, which often explores the lives of people in the American West during the 19th century.The story features Colonel Starbottle, a recurring character in some of Harte's works. Colonel Starbottle is a flamboyant and self-important lawyer who often finds himself in humorous and absurd situations. In "Colonel Starbottle's Client," he takes on a new client who is involved in a legal dispute.The plot of the story revolves around Colonel Starbottle's attempts to win the case for his client, despite the odds being stacked against them. Throughout the story, Harte uses humor and satire to comment on the legal profession and the quirks of human nature. The story also touches on themes of justice, morality, and the complexities of legal proceedings."Colonel Starbottle's Client" is an example of Harte's wit and ability to create memorable characters. It is a humorous and entertaining story that provides insight into the social and legal dynamics of the American West during the 19th century.