You will meet
with all fairness in your trial, as the proceedings will be conducted
according to the custom of your own Courts of justice. The Welcome
Swallow, having built its nest for three successive seasons under the
eaves of the Gabblegabble Court House, is deeply learned in human law
business, and will instruct us how to proceed. Your conviction will,
therefore, leave you no room for complaint so far as your trial is
concerned."
All the birds clapped their wings in applause at the conclusion of this
speech, and the Pelican was told by the Welcome Swallow that he should
plead as Prosecutor.
"What do you mean by 'Plead as Prosecutor?'" asked the Pelican gravely.
"You've got to get the prisoner convicted as guilty, whether she is so or
not," answered the Swallow, making a dart at a mosquito, which it ate with
relish.
"Oh!" said the Pelican, doubtfully; and all the creatures looked at one
another as if they didn't quite understand the justice of the arrangement.
"But," said the Pelican, hesitating a little, "suppose I don't think the
prisoner guilty? She seems very small, and harmless."
"That doesn't matter at all, you've got to get her made out as guilty by
the jury. It's good human law," snapped the Swallow, and all the creatures
said "OH!" "Now for the defence," said the Swallow briskly; "there ought
to be someone for that.
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