Old Mossadegh, the ex-bad man of Iran, is providing the world with a bit of much needed comedy, though his trial for treason may prove to have anything but a humorous aftermath.

He shouts, pounds the table, weeps, threatens (or promises) to commit suicide if his captors will let him, and declares with his usual emphasis that the court is illegal, that it can’t try him for anything. Even if they cut off his head he won’t still recognize ‘em.

This reminds us of that hoary old story about the fellow who couldn’t be put in jail, but was in there anyway. If they decide to find Mossy guilty and then shoot him it will matter little whether he recognizes the authority of the court.

“He that liveth by the sword...”