Throughout a City, Lessons of the Fall

"You failed to disclose" payments?

"Yes, Your Honor."

"You committed fraud?"

"Yes, Your Honor."

There were "misrepresentations made" about Abramoff's Capital Athletic Foundation?

Here Lowell whispered to his client. "That and other entities, Your Honor," Abramoff answered.

He admitted the "golfing trip to Scotland" was not for charitable purposes and agreed that he engaged in a public corruption scheme. "Yes, Your Honor," Abramoff said in a near-whisper. He took a sip of water.

You "provided things of value for an official act?"

"Yes, Your Honor."

"You have committed tax evasion?"

"Yes, Your Honor."

You filed "false and fraudulent forms?"

"Yes, Your Honor."

The disgrace continued for half an hour as Abramoff stood in the well, his fingertips pressing the table. The prosecutor, Mary Butler, told the judge that the lobbyist's passport has been surrendered and that, when Abramoff makes his restitution, "we would not expect it to be less" than $25 million. At this, the defendant gripped the table tightly.

Although prosecutors are recommending 9 1/2 to 11 years in prison, Huvelle repeatedly warned Abramoff that she is "not bound by these guidelines" and could sentence him to up to 30 years.

Abramoff rubbed his neck. "Yes, Your Honor."

The plea hearing was over, but not the ordeal. About 100 reporters formed a gantlet down the narrow hallway, peppering Abramoff -- "A statement outside?" "Jack, any reaction?" -- and following him to a waiting Town Car. Cameras pressed to the car's window, trained on the unhappy man in the black fedora. Even the loyal Lowell, climbing into the car, let a fleeting smile escape.