Q. You made no effort to see them or converse with them, and had no conference with them?
A. No, sir.
Q. Made no attempt to have any conference with them?
A. No, sir; I did not. I am satisfied they did not want me.
By Senator Reyburn:
Q. Was it not your duty as mayor of the city, to take charge, notwithstanding these men, and if they put themselves in your way, to take them and make them behave themselves?
A. No; I could not do that. The sheriff is the leading officer.
Q. Here among the powers, I find set forth is, "To prevent riots, noises, disturbances, or disorderly assemblages—" that is a part of your powers.
A. I will show you something stronger than that there. That is very weak—wishy-washy. Do not understand me as being offensive—you have got a pretty good-natured face, and I like to talk to you. There it is, "The mayor of the city, shall be its executive officer, and the conservator of its peace. He shall have and exercise within the city limits, the powers conferred on sheriffs of counties, to suppress disorder, and keep the peace.
Q. That is what I meant. Was it not part of your duty to take charge yourself, as mayor?