Today in Supreme Court History: November 2

United States v. Kirby Lumber Co., 284 U.S. 1 (decided November 2, 1931): in one of his last opinions, Holmes holds that the gain realized by a company which bought up its own bonds at a lower price than issued is taxable

United States v. Portale, 235 U.S. 27 (decided November 2, 1914): another opinion by Holmes, concerning conviction under a statute that I wish someone would explain to me (currently codified at 18 U.S. §2424): if you harbor an alien woman brought here for the purpose of prostitution, you must file a statement to that effect with Immigration (subsection (b) provides immunity, but can anyone trust that? does anyone ever comply with this statute?)

McKesson v. Doe, 141 S.Ct. 48 (decided November 2, 2020): Circuit Court should have certified question to the Louisiana Supreme Court (on whether Louisiana law holds organizer liable for actions of protester in seriously injuring policeman with thrown rock) instead of trying to decide it themselves