Tazewell Republican, Tazewell, VA

December 9, 1909

WILL APPEAL LITTLE CASE.

Man Convicted of Sextuple Murder in Buchanan County May Yet Escape the Electric Chair-Attorney Preparing Case For The Supreme Court.

Roanoke, Va. Dec. 4. – A large number of citizens have visited the jail here to see Howard Little, who is charged with the murder of six people in Buchanan county, and nearly all have come away with doubts about the guilt of the man. Among those who have visited Little is Mr. W. W. Huff, a prominent business man, who lived for some time in that section. After a talk with Little he came to the conclusion that he ought to have a new trial. Judge N. H. Hairston has stated that if a new trial can be gotten for Little he will defend him free of charge.

Little has received from his attorney, Bert T. Wilson, of Lebanon, a letter stating that he is taking steps to bring the case to the attention of the Court of Appeals, and that he had written the authorities of the penitentiary at Richmond not to remove him from the Roanoke jail until after the Court of Appeals had had an opportunity to pass on the matter.

Little passes his days quietly, and to look at him, one would never suppose that he rests under the shadow of doom. He looks strong and healthy, and judging by his appearance, he will meet his fate stoically.

A number of the citizens here are interested in the case and will do all they can to secure for the condemned man a new trial.