Page:The Green Bag (1889–1914), Volume 01.pdf/244

Rh STATE v. LINKHAW.

[The unintentionable disturbance of a religious congregation by discordant singing, when the singer is conscientiously taking part in the services, is not indictable.]

N North Carolina's health-inspiring woods Lived the defendant, poor in worldly goods, But full of grace, an exemplary man As ever lived since Methodists began. Upon acquaintance 'twas apparent soon Nature denied to him the sense of tune, And though the forests there with pine are rich, 'T was vain to him—he couldn't get the pitch. In church he warbled with enthusiasm, Infecting every hearer with a spasm.

His fault was worsened by his holding on After the other vocalists had done, And so in many a fervid "winding bout" He showed them "linked sweetness long drawn out," And with a voice stentorian he sang Until the dim aisles of the tar woods rang,— Not with the understanding, but with spirit, As if he wished the heathen world to hear it. This made one half the congregation shout With laughter, while the pious and devout Were scandalized; the wicked were delighted, But all the good and sober were affrighted. Once the sad preacher had shut up his book, Declined to sing the hymn, and angry took His seat; the ruling elder had refused To preach, because the music was abused. On one occasion when the Holy Ghost Seemed brooding o'er the expectant humble host, A member asked the brother not to sing Lest he should on the cause so sacred bring