The alligator fishery is a Government monopoly.

All the alligators are Government property--just like the live-oaks.

You cut down a live-oak, and Government fines you fifty dollars; you kill an alligator, and up you go for misprision of treason--lucky duck if they don't hang you, too.

And they will, if you're a Democrat.

The buzzard is the sacred bird of the South, and you can't touch him; the alligator is the sacred bird of the Government, and you've got to let him alone.' 'Do you ever get aground on the alligators now ?' 'Oh, no! it hasn't happened for years.' 'Well, then, why do they still keep the alligator boats in service ?' 'Just for police duty--nothing more.