Democratic Sentinel, Volume 20, Number 13, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 3 April 1896 — Impartial. [ARTICLE]

Impartial.

A remarkable instance of the impartial administration of justice is said to have occurred some years ago In a court of Texas, when a young Mexican, charged with having stolen a pistol, was arraigned. He proved beyond all doubt that the pistol was his own, and that it had been in bis possession long before the alleged theft occurred, The case went to the jury at 13 o’clock, the usual hour of adjournment, and the jury, who did not wish to be kept until the court opened again &1 3 o’clock, hurried to give in their verdict. The foreman, who had been reclining in a peaceful attitude suggestive of slumber during the hearing, turned to his companions, saying: “Well, boys, what do you think?" Hadn’t we better give him two years?" “All right,” responded a juryman, “Put him through, or the judge will adjourn.” “Go ahead,” said another. “We don’t want to stay here until 3 o’clock. Hurry up!” “But Is he guilty?’ queried a thoughtful old gentleman. “Well,” exclaimed the foreman, aftei a stare of astonishment at this view of the matter, “if you think he ain’t guilty, let’s clear him!” A verdict of “Not guilty!” was speedily rendered, and the jurymen cheerfully repaired to the noontide meal.