Justices Hail Brennan, Seated in the Audience

The Supreme Court paid tribute today to William J. Brennan Jr. as it began its first term in 34 years with the retired justice sitting in the audience rather than on the bench.

Brennan, 84, who retired in July because of failing health, used a cane as he walked into the courtroom to take a seat in the section reserved for special guests.

The seating arrangement of the other eight justices had been altered to reflect their changed seniority. On the far right end of the bench was an empty chair expected to be filled soon by David H. Souter if his confirmation is approved by the Senate, scheduled for Tuesday.

Chief Justice William H. Rehnquist read an exchange of letters between the eight justices and Brennan, the court’s leading liberal voice.

“The personal warmth which you radiate has enriched all of our lives,” Rehnquist read from the letter to Brennan. “We will miss your wise counsel in our deliberations.”