In Cormac McCarthy's "Suttree," the narrator reflects on their experience with a lawyer, depicting the falsehoods the lawyer conveys. The imagery suggests that these lies are insidious, creeping out subtly and quickly, akin to mice that dart away after briefly surveying their surroundings. This portrayal evokes a sense of deception, illustrating how easily lies can be communicated and then escape unnoticed.

The metaphor highlights the nature of dishonesty in legal settings, where words can be crafted to mislead. The description conveys a vivid impression of the fragility of truth, emphasizing the unsettling impact of such deceit on the listener. Overall, McCarthy's choice of imagery encapsulates the underlying tension and mistrust that can exist in interactions involving lawyers and their narratives.