Page:The Green Bag (1889–1914), Volume 02.pdf/24

F. L. White vs. J. P. Lang. Then White good counsel did procure, Commenced a suit in tort, And prayed for judgment swift and sure, In the Superior Court; The damage done, doth also pray That J. P. Lang twofold must pay. "Not so," defendant cries with spite; "Whate'er your rights might be, You are a Sabbath-breaking wight, No cash you 'll get from me. The law doth clear and surely say, On Sunday you sha'n't work or play." "That naught avails," retorted White; "For, sinner though I be, To punish me with canine bite Is not allowed to thee. Go to! thou overweening elf, I 'll answer for my sins myself. "' T was no contributory cause, That on that Sabbath clay I drove for pleasure with my horse, About the streets so gay; On any day dog's bark or bite My high-bred courser would affright." This view the learned Court sustained, To plaintiff's great delight; Defendant, too, was deeply pained To lose his shekels bright, To serve brave White, if need befall, Promptly to pay his fine withal. In foro conscienticr, Or e'en in Police Court, May Sabbath-breakers punished be, And good behavior taught; But they have rights which must, I ken, Respected be by dogs and men.