The Montgomery advertiser., 1902-07-08

II know that statistics standing alone are oftimes misleading. and that they must be considered in the light of local conditions of each country, past and pres- ent. Space will not permit, nor would it be proper, that I do so But, looking at their general tendencies, we find this great difference in the rate of homucides is not alone a question of area, for. as illustrated by the rate of Belgium, where they kill one man to every 116 square miles, and in Germany. where they kill one to every S2S square miles. It is not alone question of density of popula- ton, for the population of Belgium is 54 1-2 persons to the square mile, while that of the German Empire Is 252 i-2 per square mile. It Is not alone from climate for the Germans and Belgians are neigh bors. It is not alone a national charac- teristic, for the rates of the Belgians exceed that of the French, both of whom gre from Gothic stock and speak the same language. We must, then, look foi the real reason of this difference in the rate of homicides in the administration of their laws. I find that in Belgium the criminal law is not strictly enforced. For example, although the law pro- vides that any one sentenced to death shall be beheaded, in reality not since 1863 has any such sentence been enforced. The king in every instance has availed himself of his royal privilege. and changed the sentence to imprison- ment for life with hard labor. While. in Germany, there Is strict enforce ment of law. and this certainty of punish ment has begotten in that people spirit of observance of the law and a just re- gard of the rights of others. To illustrate their strict observance of law: I am told Sl,aN ix, Nk,ok,. t. q ag, largest cities, trees with their fruit over hang the sidewalks, and no man dare violate the law by pulling 1t. How long would luscious cherries overhang the side walks of city in Alabama, unmolested? suspect they would never grow to ripe ness here. for the fragrant budding blos- soms would be borne away in their early springtime.
 But, in the United States. we may we'll look for the reason of the reduced rate of hcmicides in the older States. The answer is in the asking the question. Why do the people in all sections of this country, so generally regard the most insignificant federal statute?" It Is be- cause in federal administration of the law, and the administration of law in the older countries and States. the crime is in the violation of the law, as we'll as in doing the prohibited act To violate a statute means that punishment will surely follow, regardless of the in- lueRce or prominent standing of the parties. This certainty of punishment would command the respect of all classes and there would be a more careful ob- servance of all law.
 ''In a consideration of the figures above submitted, we must not bc unmindful of the fact that local conditions at the South contribute largely to swell the number of homicides. in that the colored man holds with little regard the life of his colored neighbor when angered by him. But this does not change the figures which speak to the Injury of our State. The remedy must begin with strict ard impartial enforcement of the law by you. For of this you may be sure that enc kind of lawlessness begets another of a graver nature. Look to Germany for example of the ultimate results of the certain impartial enforcement of law; see how the rate of homicide is there reduced to only one person to every 2l4,573 of their population. while the rate with us is one to every 9.2S4.
 Tn the investigation of homicides, re- member that there Is no limitation as to the time in which an indictment may be found. I therefore. urge that you investigate SucH OILeIlseS brought before you, having no friend to protect no political end to subserve, no foe to oppress and base your finding alone upon the evidence before you, regardless of what any former grand jury may have failed or refused to do. regardless of the fir ding of any coroner's inquest. or of the opinion of committing magistrates and regardless of the standing or color of his unfortunate victim. whose blood con- tinually cries to heaven-where you registered your oaths-that the wrong be avenged.
 Assaults with Intent to Murder.
 An assault with intent to murder. so far as the person making the assault is concerned. only lacks the actual death Of his victim to make his crime complete. If. then. it is apparent that such an as sault has been made. call it by It's name in your finding-indicting for the higher off1nsc; and. because no substantial jn- jury resulted. let not sympathy persuade you to compromise on an indictment for assault and battery.
 offenses Against Females.
 You will carefully consider any com