The clerk had read the information. The prosecutor had made his accusation. Counsel for defense stood with the prisoner. Witnesses had testified against and for him. Upon the evidence, the judge decided the case in accordance with the law in the matter.
The verdict was against the cobbler's son. He was the thief beyond doubt and he was pronounced "Guilty!"
Then came the sentence.
"You must pay a fine of twelve and one-half cents," decided the judge.
"'Ain't got 'n' money," answered the prisoner.
"Perhaps your friends can pay it for you," suggested his attorney.
"'Ain't got 'n' friends," said the prisoner, with perfect truth.
"The cobbler has friends," murmured the crowd.
Alas! Most of the cobbler's friends were as poor as himself. Those who were well-to-do did not like to part with real money for so undeserving a cause. In those days when most debts were paid by produce and business was done by barter, twelve and a half cents was no small sum. No one offered to pay the fine.