We are admirers of the law and order, and ever join in the plaudits extended by an appreciative public to those who do their duty well and true. Our people are more or less acquainted with the facts concerning the arrest of Newton CLARK for the killing of JONES at Somerville during the war, and they are also partially acquainted with the evidence in the case as well as those pertaining to the honorable acquittal of the defendant. CLARK was a Confederate soldier, and the person he killed in a difficulty was said to be a Union man. CLARK was arrested at Grand Junction, but subsequently conveyed to Somerville, where his trial came off before Judge REEVES, a short time since. The accused was defended by our towns man, Maj. J. B. DENNIS, who proved himself a match for the prosecution, and to whose legal skill and untiring exertions his client owes his freedom from the foul blot which for a time placed him in an unenviable position. John L. T. SNEED, a lawyer of renown, in the absence of the State’s Attorney, prosecuted the case, and fully sustained his well earned reputation. We are glad to know that an honest jury heard the able and comprehensive argument made by Major DENNIS, who is, beyond doubt, an honor to any criminal bar in the country, and his earnest zeal as displayed in behalf of his client, never failed to attract the intelligence that crowded the court room during his lengthy speech, which, we are told was never excelled by any lawyer of his age. It was not our good fortune to be present at the trial, but hearing, as we have, so many distinguished gentlemen speak of the able manner in which Major DENNIS conducted the defense, deem it but just to him and the profession generally, to make mention of his achievement over difficulties that to older heads than his seemed insurmountable.
The Bolivar bulletin. (Bolivar, Hardeman County, Tenn.), 07 Dec. 1867, Page 2. Chronicling America: Historic American Newspapers. Lib. of Congress.
