“Now then,” he continued importantly. “Stand round in a ring while I read the Warrant. ”Ahem! Nevertheless, likewise, notwithstanding, heretofore, as is aforesaid. It having been proven that a certain bird named the Dodo having maliciously and contemptibly worn the white kid gloves of the Little Panjandrum, it is hereby enacted that the said Dodo, or his heirs male, or assigns, be chopped at the neck till one or all of their respective heads do fall off—and this to be done to their entire satisfaction. Long live the Panjandrum!””
"'Alas! Alas!' murmured the Court Glover."
“What a rigmarole!” whispered Dick, while the Executioner stretched out the Dodo’s effigy on the ground, and, resuming his hideous black mask, made ready to strike.
“Alas! Alas!” murmured the Court Glover, covering his face with his hands, and peeping through his fingers, while the Dodo held his sides with suppressed laughter.
The children all looked on with interest as the Executioner performed his terrible duty. Raising his curious scythe-like chopper, with one mighty blow he severed the piece of wood which answered for the Dodo’s neck, and then stood gloomily aside.
“Fiat Justitia!” said the Court Glover, solemnly; and then, turning to the Dodo, he inquired anxiously, “Well, how did you like it?”
“Oh! it was delightful!” replied the bird, enthusiastically. “I am sure no one could wish to have a pleasanter or more delightful execution. I’m much obliged to you for having it so nicely performed.”
“Well, we always like to manage these little things as pleasantly as possible, you know,” said the Court Glover, deprecatingly.