If all difference could be atoned as easily as that described in this
extract from the _Popular Magazine_, much bloodshed would be saved:
Not long ago a Paris journalist, who had by some criticism
offended a politician, received from him the following letter:
“Sir--One does not send a challenge to a bandit of your species:
one simply administers a cuff on the ears. Therefore, I hereby
cuff both your ears. Be grateful to me for not having recourse
to weapons.
“Yours truly, ----”
The journalist answered:
“My Dear Sir and Adversary--I thank you, according to your
wish, for having sent me cuffs by post, instead of slaughtering
me with weapons. Cuffed by post, I respond by dispatching you
by post six bullets in the head. I kill you by letter. Please
consider yourself dead from the first line of this epistle.
“With a respectful salutation to your corpse, I am,
“Very truly yours, ----.”
The intent to kill is present. Is not that reckoned in morals as bad as
the overt act? (Text.)
(1949)
=Malaria, Stamping Out=--See IMMUNITY FROM DISEASE.
=Malice=--See MODESTY.
=Malingery=--See SHAM.