my level best to be equal to the occasion. We are away up here in the mountains whar we hain't got no Californy law, therefore I propose to put it to a vote whether we shall try the prisoner by Lynch law or Missouri law. I hold in my hand a copy of the Constitution and By-Laws of the State of Missouri, which are good enough law for me, and ought to be good enough for any one. It will look better abroad ef we try the prisoner by real law than by Lynch law, consequently I'm in favor of usin' Missouri law on this trial; but having been elected judge by you, I shall be governed entirely by your decision.
"Your head is level, you bet, Judge," cried one of the spectators.
"Now all that is in favor of trying the prisoner by Missouri law say yes," continued his Honor.
A tremendous "yes" went up from the throats of the assembled multitude, the prisoner voting in the affirmative, and saying:
"I like Missouri law better than Lynch law, 'cause you see real law has a restrainin' influence onto the jurors."
"You have decided that this trial shall be governed by real law," continued the Court. "I think it would be doin' the neat thing ef some one would heft up a prayer as a sort o' starter. If any of you have had experience in wrestling with the Lord, I hope you won't be backward about volunteerin.' Tom Rayburn, yer father was an old prayer fighter; can't you give us a heft?"
"No, thank you, Judge; the old man consumed all
