The Birmingham age-herald., 1907-07-21
BY ROBERT T. MAJORS.

A right interesting extract is a sec ton with reference to what we now call vaccination. It seems that in those days this method of providing against the spreal of smallpox was still regarded with good deal of suspicion. as appears from the following: And be it further enacted, That whereas, in certain cases inoculation for the smallpox many not only be prudent, but necessary meas ure for securing those who are. or may be, unavoidably exposed to the danger Of taking the disease in the natural way; and for this reason 1t Is adtudged expedl- ent to tolerate the same, under certain reasonable regulations and restrictions: It Is provided, therefore. that if any person or persons who may wish to be inoculated shall petition the governor to that effect, he may appoint him or them place with in this territory that will not endanger the health of the citizens of the same where the petitioner or petitioners shall resort for te purpose of being inoculated,"
 As quite 0 good deal has been said fin the various acts and extracts quoted in regard to the duties and responsibilities of the justice of the peace of the time the oath required of this dignitary before entering upon his duties, might make a fitting close to this article. It would be difficult to conceive of an office of any kind or character so full of dignity and power, as might not, with all propri- ety, adopt the oath required of his honof of century ago. before induction Into office. We are not surprised that he was a most important arm of the law. The following Is the oath: IT, A. B. do soemnly swear that as justice of the peace in the county of - in all things I will do equal right to the poor and to the rich to the best of my judg ,ar,f ar,d fnar fn hn la of fha territory. L will not privately nor open ly, by myself or any other person, be of counsel in any suit or quarrel depending before me- The fines and amercements that shall be made, and the forfeitures that shall be incurred before me, l will cause to be duly entered and will truly and faithfully account for and pay the same over to the proper officers required by law to receive the same. without councealment or delay. I will not wtting- ly take, either by myself or by any other person for me, any fee, gift, gratuity or reward whatsoever, for any matter or thing by me to be done by virtue of my office, except such fees may be directed and limited by law but that l will well and truly perform the duties of my said office. l will not delay any person of common right, though favor, affection or partiality, or refuse to take recognizance of any complaint made before me- which by law comes under my Jurisdiction. I will not direct any warrant by me to be made, to the parties. but will direct all such war rants to the sheriff. constable of the county, or other officers of the territory, or to some other dsinterested person to do execution thereof. The sums of money received before me and paid into my during my continuance therein. I will well and truly account for and pay over, ,apf Or and final ly. in all things belonging to my office. during myl continuance therein, I will faithfully, truly, and justly, according to the best of my skill and judgment, do equal and impartial justice to all. So help me God"