"Very simply. I'll issue a proclamation suspending the writ of habeas corpus——"
"But you have no right," Schlitz gasped. The ex-scullion had been studying law the past two years and aspired to the Supreme Court bench.
"My right is doubtful, but it will go in times of revolution. I'll suspend the writ, arrest the leaders of the Klan without warrant, put them in jail and hold them there without trial until the day after the election."
Schlitz's eyes danced as he sprang forward and extended his fat hand to the Scalawag:
"Governor, you're a great man! Only a great mind would dare such a plan. But do you think your life will be safe?"
The little figure was drawn erect and the ferret eyes flashed:
"The Governor of a mighty commonwealth—they wouldn't dare lift their little finger against me."
Schlitz shook his head dubiously.
"A pretty big job in times of peace—to suspend the civil law, order wholesale arrests without warrants by a ragged militia and hold your men without trial——"
"I like the job!" was the quick answer. "I'm going to show the smart young man who edits the paper in this town that he isn't running the universe."