struck his walking-stick sharply on the packed earth of Yancy's
dooryard. "What's the charge agin you, Bob?"

"Read hit," said Balaam. "Why, sho'--can't you read plain
writin', Uncle Sammy?" for the patriarch was showing signs of
embarrassment.

"If you gentlemen will let me--" said Carrington pleasantly.
Instantly there came a relieved chorus from the three in one
breath.

"Why, sure!"

"Would my spectacles help you any, Mr. Carrington ?" asked Uncle
Sammy officiously.

"No, I guess not."

"They air powerful seein' glasses, and I'm aweer some folks read
a heap easier with spectacles than without 'em." After a
moment's scrutiny of the paper that Balaam had thrust in his
hand, Carrington began:

"To the Sheriff of the County of Cumberland: Greetings."

"He means me," explained Balaam. "He always makes 'em out to the
sheriff, but they are returned to me and I serve 'em."
Carrington resumed his reading

"Whereas, It is alleged that a murderous assault has been