Democratic Sentinel, Volume 22, Number 13, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 2 April 1898 — DIDN’T MIND BULLETS. [ARTICLE]

DIDN’T MIND BULLETS.

The Judge Liked an Argument Too Well to Be FCased by a Shot. During the day I had attended court, where a lawsuit of considerable importance was on trial and which was not decided until (1 o'clock in tli'e evening, says a writer. Then I went home to stop for the night with the judge wl» had the case in hand. On the way home we were stopped by a man, who said: “Judge, it is quite likely that the loser of that suit will shoot at you through a window to-night to secure revenge.” “Yes, quite pleasantly replied the judge, as we passed on. At-the supper table his wife appeared nervous and uneasy, and before the meal was concluded she said: “Alfred, a man has been seen in front of the house acting rather suspiciously, and I'm afraid he means you harm.” . “Yes, I’m afraid so, iny dear,” replied the judge and then took up the conversation she had interrupted. After supper we adjourned to the library, and by and by, as we sat at the table with a kerosene lamp between us, there arose an argument connected with the political question. “Sir,” said the judge, as he grew heated by opposition, “they may bring all their sophistry to bear on the question, but nothing will convince me that——” At that instant I felt a hot streak along my left cheek, and the lamp chimney was shivered into a hundred pieces and the light went out. The judge rang a hand lndl which was within reach and I thought I hoard the notes of the bell befpre the report of a rifle in front of the house. A negro man came running in, and the judge said: “Julius, bring us another lamp.” When the lamp was brought I looked at the judge. He had not changed in the slightest. “Wasn't that a bullet which broke the lamp chimney?” I asked. “Very likely it was,” he replied, as he looked around. “And wasn't it meant for you?” “I presume so. There it is, in lire back of a law book. As I was saying, however, sophistry Is not argument, and those champions-—” “Excuse me, judge,” I interrupted, “but tiie next bullet may kill one of us.” ' “Oh, they never shoot but once, and I want to convince you that your position is untenable. You see, to begin with, the Democratic party ”• But liis wife came in and insisted that he give an alarm, and the argument was never finished.