Carroll Free Press

Miscellaneous.
Flogging a Preacher.
About twenty years ago, when there were but few settlements in the northern part of Ohio, an itinerant preacher of the Methodist Society, by the name of Johnson, was employed to travel on the extensive circuit in that section of the country. Johnson was a man somewhat above the middle stature, with brawny shoulders, and endowed with great muscular strength, and a degree of courage and self-possession equal to any emergency, qualities which admirably fitted him for conflict with the rude and boisterous elements pervading the society by which he was surrounded. In his manner he was affectionate, but faithful in what he considered his duty, without regard to consequences. The fearlessness with which he assailed the strongholds of depravity and licentiousness, had the effect of drawing down upon his head the indignation of a certain class of characters, who, determined to get rid of him, insulted and annoyed him in various ways, but through his coolness and shrewdness, not only were their plans defeated, but not unfrequently their wicked devices were made to recoil upon their own heads.
After every expedient had signally failed, it was resolved as a last resort to cause the preacher to be waylaid and severely beaten; with the assurance that he would decamp immediately, or the course of treatment was to be followed up until the desired effect should be produced. As the instrument of their vengeance, they were induced to select a bully by the name of Kennedy, who had the reputation of being the most athletic man in the country, and who for a stipulated reward undertook the disgraceful business.
One time as the clergyman was riding on horseback, he was met in an unfrequented spot by the ruffian who was also on horseback. Kennedy saluted him with mock respect, and informed him that he intended to give him a sound drubbing.
“Ah! but my dear sir, you had better go about your business. If you try it you will be sure to get the worst of the bargain.”
“There’s little fear of that,” replied Kennedy, “I have basted stronger men than you before to-day.” So saying he aimed a blow with his fist at the preacher's head, intending to knock him off his horse, but missing, received one in return which brought him instantly to the ground.
The preacher then dismounted, and picking up his prostrate and chop-fallen adversary, threw him over an adjoining fence.
The bully finding that he had got hold of the wrong customer, wisely concluded upon a cessation of hostilities, and looking over the fence he cried out as the preacher stood patiently waiting another attack:
“I say, Mister, will you be good enough to throw my horse over after me?”
Johnson was thereafter permitted to ride and preach without any farther molestation.