A trial took place last week in Alma, Buffalo Co., before his Honor, the popular "Squire" Hanner. Two German farmers had had a falling out and as they couldn't convince each other of the other's wrong by words, so they tried to do it by fists, and a regular thrashing took place between them. The one who received the most blows sued the other, and the squire called a jury together to decide the case.
Mr. Moser, jr. was called upon to represent the defendant and Mr. Vetter, the plaintiff. As the charges were being established and confirmed, the lawyer for the defendant stood and tried with the best of his knowledge to rebut the charges. In the introduction to his talk he said that his client had only acted in self-defense.
The plaintiff, who only understood a little English, sprang angrily to his feet and while threatening the defendant with his fist said: "That's a lie! It wasn't by de fence, but in de street!"
An unstoppable laughter naturally followed this comical misunderstanding, in which the judge, jury and lawyers nodded to each other - for they all were Germans - the plaintiff was at first perplexed but then laughed too as one explained to him his error. The clever defender used the hearty mood and suggested a good compromise, which was accepted. Both farmers paid the court costs and left together for home as reconciled friends.