Now, had he a rival? Clear up these
points and you get a clue!" The judge paused impressively.
"Tom Ware has acted in a straightforward manner. He's stated
frankly he was opposed to the match, that when he heard about it
on his way to Memphis he turned back and made every effort to get
to the church in time to stop it if he could," said Mr. Saul.
"Mr. Ware need not be considered," observed the judge.
"Well, there's been a heap of talk."
"If he'd inspired the firing of the fatal shot he'd have kept
away from the church. No, no, Mr. Saul, is there anybody
hereabout who aspired to Miss Malroy's hand--any rejected
suitor?"
"Not that we know of."
"Under ordinary circumstances, sir, I am opposed to measures that
ignore the constituted authorities, but we find ourselves living
under extraordinary conditions, and the law--God save the name
--has proved itself abortive. It is time for the better element to
join bands; we must get together, sir. I am willing to take the
initial steps and issue the call for a mass meeting of our best
citizens. I am prepared to address such a meeting." The very
splendor of his conception dazzled the judge; this promised a
gorgeous publicity with his name flying broadcast over the
county. He continued:
"I am ready to give my time gratuitously to directing the
activities of a body of picked men who shall rid the county of
the lawless element. God knows, sir, I desire the repose of a
private career, yet I am willing to sacrifice myself.
Pages:
259
260
261
262
263
264
265
266
267
268
269
270
271
272
273
274
275
276
277
278
279
280
281
282
283