Ex parte Griffin

The question presented for determination here is the right or power of the keeper of the' work-house of Davidson County to hold in custody the petitioner, Griffin, until he pays, secures, or works out at the rate of forty cents per day,the State and county tax on litigation.

The petitioner was convicted of the offense of carrying a pistol, and sentenced to pay a fine of fifty dollars, and was, by the usual judgment in such cases, committed to the work-house, in default of paying or securing the fine and costs.

The fine was remitted by the Governor, and petitioner has remained in the work-house…