SC1896_FF1_013

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tone of voice. "It seems we can't get a jury, sir"
I am sorry to hear it, replied, my brother. I have
just arrived in town, knew nothing of this special
term of the court, & understand that the deputies
are out in search of jurors - but owing to the
inclemency of the weather, those persons who
are qualified keep out of their way". "You
did not know of the court" rejoined the Judge
apparently much excited. "Sir, it was your business
to know that the court was in session. I know said
he, that you reside several miles from town,
but you ought to keep an office here - Mr. Clerk (said
the Judge) enter a fine of ten pounds against
Benjn J. Taul, Sheriff for a contempt of this court
in failing to be here in person, at the sitting
of the Court this morning & in failing to have
a jury summoned to try the Prisoners at the
bar. During the delivery of the lecture from
the bench, & the order inflicting the fine, my
brother was on his feet, within the bar, looking
earnestly at the Judge, (who was a great
personal friend), but complacently - at the
conclusion he seemed to be overwhelmed with
astonishment - involuntarily sunk down on a
chair, & for several minutes seemed to be almost
insensible of what had transpired. Such was
the effect of the sudden outbreak of this
honorable Judge. The members of the bar
& officers of the court & others who were present
were all his friends, & for a moment enjoyed
this occurrences as an excellent joke for a cold
day. Altho' a mild & placid man, he had a
"heavy brow" & for once, they saw them, & only once
"gathering storms" - his lips quivered - & his whole
frame shook with anger. He rose to his feet,
as if he intended to address the Judge, but he
was unable to speak - tears flowed freely down
his manly face & he abruptly left the Court
house, & went to my residence. When the Court
adjourned, the Judge called to see him, invited