The Bad Man and the Preacher (1910)
16 Apr 1910 • Short, Western
"Snake" Williams, typical bad man, and a little group of cowboys are found loitering lazily about the Snakeville, Ariz. barroom, when the noon-day stage coach out of Phoenix rumbles around pike and deposits one lone passenger. Interest is immediately aroused and as the stage coach pulls out, Snake, the constant bully, sidles up to the newly arrived stranger to inquire the latter's business, explaining at the same time that although the town has no mayor or reception committee, he will be pleased to do the honors. Following the statement Snake invites the stranger into the "Silver Dollar" for any refreshments the gentleman might desire, with the recommendation that "Old Henry" is about the best the "Silver Dollar" affords. "I am a minister of the Gospel," answers the Rev. James Smyth, "I do not indulge in liquor of any kind." This blunt affront almost sweeps the bully off his feet, while the other boys gather about to view the poor and indiscreet pastor's quick extermination. But before Snake has an opportunity to vent his wrath, Rev. Smyth turns on his heel and disappears around the corner. Two days later we find the Rev. Smyth in front of the little frame church posting a notice to the effect that, "Services will be held here today at 2 P.M." extending an invitation to all to attend. Snake Williams, who fears that the affront from the preacher might question his title, calls his little crowd of bad men together and announces solemnly that no services will be held in Mustang this day. With his rowdies at his heels he rides off to the little frame church and proceeds to riddle the notice with bullets from his Colts. The services are in progress and shortly after the shots are fired the preacher comes out, demanding to know the reason for this desecration of the Sabbath. Snake starts a row and forces the preacher into a fistic battle. The two fight strenuously, Snake sometimes on top, sometimes the preacher. But in the end a straight-from-the-shoulder wallop sends Snake rolling in the dust and the awed cowboys, seeing their chief defeated, rally to the preacher's standard and finally enter the church, leaving Snake and Rev. Smyth to further discuss matters. "Preacher," says Snake, condescendingly, "you're a wonder, an' if you'll forgive a pore sinner..." Rev. Smyth stretches out his hand. Snake grasps it gratefully and upon the pastor's invitation enters the church.
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None, English
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United States
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