and brought for trial before himself.

The father, on conviction, Brutus-like, sentenced the son to
death, and fearing a rescue from the prison, caused him to
be brought home and to be hanged before his own door.

More or less apocryphal is this story from Ireland. The explanation most
generally accepted refers the term back to a planter who lived in what is
now known as the Piedmont country of Virginia.

At the time his district was the western frontier, and
having no law of its own, and being seven miles from the
nearest court of criminal jurisdiction, controversies were
constantly referred to men of sound judgment and
impartiality, whose decisions were regarded as final.

Prominent among these was Charles Lynch. His awards
exhibited so much justice, judgment, and impartiality, that
he was known throughout the country as Judge Lynch.

In the course of time criminals were brought before him, and
he awarded such punishment as he considered just and
proper.

There were other persons, in different districts, who acted
as arbitrators, and who awarded punishments; but Judge Lynch
was the most conspicuous, and consequently the system took
his name, and was called Lynch law. This was a compliment to
his integrity and high character.

In England Lynch law was formerly called Lydford law. In Scotland it was
known as Cowper law.

THE SORT OF NEWS OUR ANCESTORS READ.

GLEANINGS FROM OLD JOURNALS.

Runaway Slaves Delighted Hearts of Advertising
Managers, and Antics of
Militia Excited Applause.

Old newspapers make good reading--if they are old enough. Like the
deciphering of moss-covered epitaphs, the reading of journals of other
days gives rise to reflections that mingle the sweet with the sad. It
shows plainly that time does not alter human nature, much as customs may
change.

_The American Weekly Mercury_ was formerly published in Philadelphia. An
examination of the issue for November 29, 1722, brings to light this
interesting advertisement:

Run away from Ezekiel Balding of Hempstead on Long-Island,
one Indian Man Slave, named Dick, of Middle Stature and of a
smiling Countenance. He speaks English pretty well, and no
other Language. He can read. He has a big nose, and has
white scratches on his Arm, and a blue spot on the Inside of
one of his Wrists, and a little above his Shirt wrist-bands.
He