Page:The Green Bag (1889–1914), Volume 16.pdf/270

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The "Reform " Judge.

225

Mr. Justice Bauern thinks it rather fun (Seeing that his term has yet several years to run) To jibe and jeer at counsel, at plaintiffs and defendant!.. Yap and snarl, this he calls, "judicial independence." Ever and anon he feels deep and pure elation, When appears before him a defendant corporation, While labor union cases raise a strong unholy stench, Conducive to "dismissals" and to tirades from the bench. Also does his Honor delight to take in hand And cross-examine witnesses placed upon his stand; Clips off counsel's argument, cuts objections short, Thus as Justice Bailem says, "saving time of court." "Not a mere case lawyer," as he often states, In rendering decisions, he differentiates. Whittles all the law down fine, not to hold or bind, Evidencing, as he thinks, "fine judicial mind." Mr. Justice Bailem cannot understand. Why they "pass" the cases when he is on hand, Why the counsel present 'journ upon consent, Hints of dark conspiracy, wonders what is meant. « Mr. Justice Bailem waxes passing hot, Babbles of "ingratitude," promotion comelh not; Still holds nisi firius, like.a bear within its lair, And it's just a ten to one that he'll stay right there.