But the Writ was served by an authorized mode—
Not “personal,” but as prescribed by the “Code;”
Commissioners appointed, one, two and three,
In matters ex-parte must surely agree.
But now he displayed both wisdom and pluck,
His head was all right, and so was his luck;
Sir Thomas appeared in a legalized way,
By Counsel appeared, and presented a “Stay,”
An “Order of Court,” which all must abide,
The first step to set all proceedings aside.
He said to his lawyer, a man of renown,
“I’ll show them I’m neither a fool or a clown.
They swore I was crazy, and out of my mind,
An old dotard they called me—lame, halt, and blind;
They shall take it all back! a stroke of my pen
Shall force them to cry out Amen! and Amen!
Having conquered thus far, possessing my wife,
I’ll heal up old sores—prevent further strife;
Matters now doubtful, shall by law be made plain,
My children no longer shall curse, or complain.
So sit down at once—do all in your power,
To have this my ‘Last Will’ complete in an hour;
The words I will dictate to you, my dear friend,
Your wisdom and judgment, I trust, will commend.”