THE ARGUMENT.
The beginning
—The subject proposed, in a dedication to
the Lion—The Mammoth, with the municipal and judicial
regulations of his kingdom, and the moral rectitude of his
subjects—Canis, the Shepherd, his character and popularity
—Sheep washing—Capra, a Goat, enters a complaint
against her shepherd for abusing his trust—The grand jury,
on her evidence, find a bill against him—Description of the
season, and the Lion's couch—Capra petitions the Lion
that the cause may be tried before the Great Court, (smaller
matters being generally decided by arbitration)—Jackall
ordered to summon the members of the Great Court
to attend—The Court convened—Judges, marshals, jurors,
high-sheriff, &c.—Ancient mode of opening court—Attorney-general
—Indictment for assault and battery—Defendant
pleads not guilty—Names and description of the counsel
on both sides, with some anecdotes of their lives—
Pleadings opened, on the part of the beasts, by Ursus, the
Bear—Capra examined by Pardus, the Panther—Cross-examined
by Reynard, the Fox—Defendant's case opened
by Dama the Buck—Names of witnesses for defendant
called—Witnesses sworn—Ovis, an ewe, examined by Dama
—Cross-examined by Pardus—Court adjourn.
Scene—Banks of the Missouri. Time—seven hours.
