The Effect of Eloquence — 218
One of the late Governors of South Carolina was a splendid lawyer, and could talk a jury out of their seven senses. He was especially noted for success in criminal cases, almost always clearing his client. He was once counsel for a man accused of horse-stealing. He made a long, eloquent, and touching speech. The jury retired, but returned in a few moments, and proclaimed the man not guilty. An old acquaintance stepped up to the prisoner, and said: “Jem, the danger is passed; and now, honour bright, didn’t you steal that horse?” To which Jem replied: “Well, Tom, I’ve all along thought I took the horse; but since I’ve heard the Governor’s speech, I don’t believe I did.”