Rensselaer Semi-Weekly Republican, Volume 20, Number 106, Rensselaer, Jasper County, 22 September 1899 — A Rural Court Scene. [ARTICLE]

A Rural Court Scene.

A couple applied to a rural justice of the peace for total divorce. The justice called the bailiff aside and asked In a whisper: “What’s the law on that p’lnt?” “You can’t do it,” replied the bailiff, “It don’t come under yer jurisdiction.*’ “We’re willin’ to pay cash fer It,” replied the husband, not understanding the nature of the consultation. “I’ve got the money In this here stockin’.” The justice looked grave. Then, adjusting his spectacles and addressing the man, said: “You knowed ’fore you come here that ’twarn’t fer me ter separate husband an’ wife, an’ yet, you not only take up the time o’ this here valuable court with yer talkin’, but ackchully perpose ter bribe me with money! Now, how much has you got In that stockin’?” “ ’Bout six dollars an’ a half, yer Honor.” 1 "All right, then. I fine you $5 fer bribery an’ a dollar an’ a half fer takln’ up my time with a case what my jurisdiction Is out of, an’ may the Lord have mercy on yer souk”—Atlanta Constitution.