Chapter XII

But the _Writ_ was served by an authorized mode--
Not “personal,” but as prescribed by the “Code;”
Commissioners appointed, one, two and three,
In matters _ex-parte_ must surely agree.
But now he displayed both wisdom and pluck,
His head was all right, and so was his luck;
Sir Thomas appeared in a legalized way,
By Counsel appeared, and presented a “_Stay_,”
An “_Order of Court_,” which all must abide,
The first step to set all proceedings aside.
He said to his lawyer, a man of renown,
“I’ll show them I’m neither a fool or a clown.
They swore I was crazy, and out of my mind,
An old dotard they called me--lame, halt, and blind;
They shall take it all back! a stroke of my pen
Shall force them to cry out Amen! and Amen!
Having conquered thus far, possessing my wife,
I’ll heal up old sores--prevent further strife;
Matters now doubtful, shall by law be made plain,
My children no longer shall curse, or complain.
So sit down at once--do all in your power,
To have this my ‘_Last Will_’ complete in an hour;
The words I will dictate to you, my dear friend,
Your wisdom and judgment, I trust, will commend.”