The New York herald. [volume], December 31, 1842, Image 6

About The New York herald. [volume] (New York [N.Y.]) 1840-1920

Image provided by: Library of Congress, Washington, DC

                
y -jr
NEW YORK HERALD
lt?W York, tUtur4ajr, DMrnk. U. 1*49.
QO-Tbe ScmdaT He&am . unu-ually rich and val
uable, will be imued to-norrow a* u?ual? and contain,
among other mattera, a continuation of the
Somen Enquiry?Con*rr*eional and olh? r new-bt
the latent southern inaila. Arc. >Vc. I'nce 2 cent.
The Naval Courr of E*<h*i*t? Anrornomo
DiaCLosrRits?We call the attention of our reader*
to the report, in another column, of the proceeding
of the Court ot Enquiry on the conduct of Commander
McKenzie, ol the Somers.1
If the disclosures on tins inquiry, and the astound
ine and extraordinary narrative ot McKenxie do
nut astonish the whole community, we know nut
what will. Only think of a commander, after executing
three men, and ordering three cheers for the
American flag, then saying to his crew that they
should also "Give rluers for Goil AlmightyV The
singular mixture of folly, silliness, and blaspheme
in his narrative, is most extraordinary One'faet i?
now certain, the identity of this narrative with the
article in the "Courier and Enquirer," is i?erlect and
complete.
We leave the public to judge ol this awful aflair,
and to wait for the rest of the evidence. As no
copies for the news|>aper press were allowed to be
taken by the Court of this extraordinary " Narrative,"
the only full, correct, and word-for-word report
is only to be found in the "Herald," as it wa?
taken down by our reporter from the lips of Mr.
Hoffman.
The Congressional He ports, anil Correapon.
lie nee of the Heraltl.
The accuracy and graphic character of our reports
of the present interesting debates in Congress,
are, us usual, beginning to increase the movements
of our friends, and the activity of our toes. Yesterday
we had an order from our Washington agent
for an increase of fifty copies, to the number already
taken, and our agents throughout all the large cities
are beginning to move in the same way. Our subscriptions
from the country, with cash in advance,
come in at the rate of 80 to 50 per day.
This singular movement in favor of the Herald,
arises from its philosophical independence of all
tlit/uex, parties, aid men, and its ability ia consequence
thereof, ol presenting the only correct, graphic,
interesting record of events in this country. No
administration can buy us?we belong to the present
ige and to future times. No party can intimidate
its?we rise above party, and only live in the regions
of truth, fact, philosophy, and human nature.
It is very natural, therefore, that constant attempts
should be made to impair the character of the Herald,
its proprietor, and its principal writers and rel<orters.
The bitterness of disappointment and envy
can easily account for these malicious and feeble
attempts?and among the most mean and silly that
we have seen of late, is the attempt of one T. N.
f'armelee, who wasdismissed last summer from our
service f?r his indolence and incompetence, and
who is now in Washington, hanging upon the President
and his lriends,'endeavoring to wreak his silly
vengeance upon us, in the following letter, which
he writes to an obscure paper in this city:?
T. N. Parmelee's Letter to a New York Pater.
[Correspondence.]
Washington, Dec. 41, 1842.
It is a great pity that Mike Walsh did not remain in
Washington during the session. As long as he was here,
Attree.thc notorious vagubond who acts as reporter to the
Herald, was kept in perfect bodily tear, expecting, every
day that he might be castigated by .Mike. Ot course, Attree
is relieved by his absence.
It is very curious to notice how differently the Herald
is looked ii pon since Parmeleu left it. It was before, a sort
of semi-olhcial organ ol the President, so far as the letters
Ilom Washington were concerned. It was oivinir to this
tliHt the paper gained such a circulation over the United
States. As might have been expected, the moment Mr.
I'urmelee left it, the whele concern ceased to be an object
of any interest whatever. The character of the Herald,
however, was not so well understood at Washington as at
New York, and the course pursued by Mr. P. was calculated
to take oil the odium which attached to the paper at
home. He is known to be a man of decided talbnts, great
political tact, and uncommon discretion. It was natural
that he should feel degraded, so far as he was connected
with the Herald, in the city of New York; and an attempt
of the Scotch vagabond who owns the Herald to cheat him
out of several hundred dollars, led to a separation.
Bennett, in order to give an appearance to thetruth of a
charge that Mr. Parmelee was indebted to him, invented
one of the most extraordinary lies that even his ingenuity
ever devised. Ho rhnrired Vr . i-.f?
.u 1,1... n.. i~o Hundred dollars, in favor of a person in the
city of New York?that the person named presented it?
and afterwards that the notary public, Mr. Havens, protested
the aforesaid draft for non-pay ment. The whole of
the story was a sheer fabrication. Mr. Parmelee never
drew a draft on him for two hundred dollars?the person
named in Bennett's paper never had or presented any such
draft, or any other on him?and the notary public named
never heard of such a draft until he saw'it named in the
Herald. Yet all this detail of names and circumstances
was made for the sake of giving currency to the lie, and
with a view to injure Mr. Parmelee.
This is the version which Parmelee himself gives
of his transactions with us?though he atlects to
give it as from another person, as anonymous. It is
needless lor us to say, that there is not a word ?f
truth in the story?and the best evidence that can
he given of its falsehood, is the following letter writ
len io us ai me inner, in jrarmciee ? own nunu-wnting,
which proves the accuracy of our statement,
and establishes himself to be a self-convicted liar
of no ordinary degree.
T. N. Parmkt.ke to J. G. Bennett.
WASHINOTO*, Saturday evening.
Ma. JAMI ? O. BBNNKTT:?
DRAR SIR : ?
May I tw-g of yon to add to the thousand favors you
havu already bestowed U[>on me, one more still 1 Will
you take up the two hundred dollar draft, which I drew
upon Ediott the other day 7 1 have coming to me here
more than a thousand dollars, all of which I shall receive
by the time ot the adjournment o( Congress. There has
be. n delay owing to the tardiness of Congress in making
appropriation*, but the money must come in the course ot
a couple of weeks, when I shall be able to requite all your
kindm ?* so far as money will doit. Your generous confidence
I never can repay.
tf yon are unuilling to do this for me, and I am well
an ire that I have no claim upon you, the draft must be
protested, and I must take care of it aa best 1 can.
Will you drop me a line in any event?
Your*. Ac. T. N. rARMELEE.
I( will be observed in this letter, which proves
hnn ft bar No. 1, that Parmelee alludes to "a
thousand favors" we had already bestowed upon
him. This refers to #500 iu cash, which 1
advanced to pay his debts to Mr. Yale of the
United States Hotel in this city, which, however,
he never applied to that purpose. 31 have the note
now in my possession unpaid. Yet because I refused
to "fork over" more money, after his numerous
'!< options,"practisedjboth on President Tyler
and myself, he had the cool impudence to get a
lawyer to write me a note demanding me to |?y
over the balance I owed him, or he would sue me.
In reference to his opinion of the character of the
Herald and inysell, when he thought that lie could
-! ?? <1 hi his imnioses. I could multinlv evidence
on ; hut the following is sufficient, extract*
I from two of his letters, to prove him a liar
No 2?and a liar No. 3:?
Washis<?ton, Friday Evening.
Ma JiMiiO. BtmiTTi?
D?ti Rib?
1 have Just returned Irom the White House.
A< t>>> My-elt, I cannot have an office worth taking, lor
s. ,i|. would not conltrm me under any circum
The < lay senator* all hate mo more than any
?i i lh< country, escept the President and youraalf
V < l?lu| fot the President or connexion with the Hera. nit
k II ^ny roan with the Senate, hut the two
SB Bed would Itreak down the angel Gabriel.
Vouis.lic. T. N. PARMELEE.
WAiHirtnTon, April 20.
Ma. Jams* U. Iivsirt:?
d* as liaI
w ?? in!* aware until to day that Mr. Sutton hadceaaed
* rite forth' Herald I a ill give you the proceeding*
i '??th the Sena'-' and the House until I hear from you.
with the i,e?*, he. as heretnlore. I ran ilo it all in ons
l.itef, embracing all in both House of public interest,
a ti th' out door gossip and news, aa much in accordance
with the s|ar?t and purpose of the Herald, aa if Mr. Sutton
stiend'- loth. Honor I should thnsk it ought to he
. Hi ?l?..i >! < pet week more But I leave it entirely
i > ."i. I tots un/eria/y ftunA yen lihtritl and kind to
to to*' dsgtrr ?
Yours, he.
T. N. PARMELEE
rtiew luete will be sufficient with every irnpar,
t? *ilrf, in rrjiel ifir attacks of such a man as
I'armrJrr mi the character of the Herald and its
.en The self puffery and black ingratitude
. I firni'lee. his anonymous letter, are equally
ludirrosM and weak
A few yeara ago he came to me from Middleton,
aari ticut, oegg.ng employment, out of charity,
* ~ 1 d!d nut want him! but
? n! hive *< ted to many other ungrateful
*a?dre|o? 1 (t\e mm a little employment
i ?* r>f *10 ?trrk I mon found, however,
itt l?e was <d little u?-- a reporter?and too lazy
rmy pur ..*e, except loatinc at tavern*, or playing
* ' intn nth infra? At his earnest entreaty, I
tit m to Albany -then to Harriabursb?then to
Waelnnfion at the extra *e-?n>n, with special di?
< . o?, m ret ere nee to a corn spondence. 1 con
: ' i .r ? i. refill <r *e--ion, but found
i rn ini \ fei t-^tive, impudent, presumif
and estravafant Hence his dralts tor money.
I l ien d -rn -?d hm, and am >i>rry to had lhat the
President ?ull continue* t* employ him in the
i Treasury IV; ?-trneoi II the President has any
I g ?rit tot hia re, utato-n, lie ought to dietuia* him
UMUllllV
T:i.-n ?c ii v ih r-K -rd in Mr Attree. The at
in m?'l. tu .imirr ln? character, to depreciate
i..-inn n:-, m i t<> underrate In* intellect, by such
per?on- .(>- Mike Walsh und I'artnelee, can accomplish
no'hing We have tried Attree?he in one of
the ablest r? porters in thm country?and is particuI
irly c?p?l>ie|in giving e*act verbatim reports. In|this
repi ct there ia not one in Washington that can
e ,ml, far less surpass, him We have every confidence,
too, that his conduct and demeanor at Washington
will command re?pect and esteem. Out of
sheer envy Parinelee may malign auch a man?but
it requires a sjwi ies of " subterranean" ingratitude
akin to hell iteeh, tor such a man as Mike Walsh to
slander one who never put a straw in his way?never
injured him- but, on the contrary, by reporting
two of Ins speeches, and improving and correcting
them far beyond their original merit* when he reported
them, was the sole cause of gaining Walsh
the short-lived notoriety lie has hud in the world.?
To Attree, Mike Walsh is indebted for the greatest
eflorts and most disinterested friendship?and to return
that kindness by attacking his benefactor and
his benefactor's wife,indicates that Mike Walsh has
one of the blackest hearts that ever curdled into villainy
within the breast of any being in the shape of
man. It is melancholy to think of it.
As for the Herald and its proprietor, we have met
auuuiivrll DMi UK) Mlitliy greaier assailants man
such miserable beggars as Mike Walsh and Partnelee;
wc consider (heir impotent attacks as the
bitesof half famished mosquitoes on the first appearance
of winter. Go, miserable devils?go?or we
will crush the villainy out of yon between our forefinger
and thumb?thus !
Mexico.?We have not much news from this republic.
Santa Anna was still at his country seat at
the last accounts, anxiously awaiting movements in
the city of Mexico. It is expected that there will
be soon another revolution in that unhappy country.
The new tariff went into o|>eralion on the 1st ult.
Much of the produce of the United States formerly
excluded, will be admitted ut a tremendous duty;
flour was then worth front #18*to #20 |>er brl, hams
88 to 45 cents |>er lb., eggs 81 cents per dozen, potatoes
#1 per bushel, apples 4 cents each, |>eaches and
pears about the same. The rumor that California
wnsopen to emigrants, has been settled by the Mexcan
Minister at Washington. No foreigner can
" squat" there.
Texas.?There appears to be a good deal of trouble
in Texas anions her own citizens. The Presi.
dent is at loggerheads with the army, which has resulted
in the displacement of the commander-inchief.
The divisions in the army of the West had
ended in an open rupture. About 725 men had withdrawn
from the army under Gen. Somervell?had
elected William G. Cooke, Colonel?C. I. Howard,
Lieutenant Colonel?and had taken up their line of
march, under the new organization for Mexico.?
Gen. Somervell was President Houston's man, and
the army disgusted with his delays, left him. His
whole force before the division, according to the
accounts, could not have consisted of more than
1000. Colonel Cooke and Lieutenant Col. Howard
were both attached to the Santa Fe expedition.?
The mutineers may do something in Mexico if they
push ahead. They will either whip or get whipped,
that is sure.
Braham's Farewell Concert.?This concert
? una uii me
vocalists most rapturously applauded. Mrs. Sutton
was truly superb in power, beauty and execution.
Miss Emeline Sutton received bursts on bursts of a|>plause
and laughter, at her nairtll, grace, and tact.
Both were encored. Mr. Brahatn was splendid?
and Mr. Charles as usual, capital.
As this distinguished, vocalist does not leave lor
Europe till next week, why not give us one or two
concerts more before he goes forever 1 In the course
of nature, Mr. Braham's next voyage from his native
land will be to another, a better, and a brighter
country than any here below.
The Last Shot.?Ex-Secretary Ewing is still
alive and kicking. His last letter was awful on the
President's door keeper. Oh !
The Storm ahd the Mails.?The snow storm on
Thursday night sadly deranged the mails. The
great Southern mail, due at twelve o'clock that
night, did not reach the city till ten o'clock
yesterday morning, and the Eastern steamboat
mail had not arrived at ten o'clock last night.?
The Northern mail came in about seven o'clock,
but brought no news. The storm was the severest
here. Most of the snow, however, will probably
disappear to-day or to-morrow.
From Rio Janeiro.?We have advices to the 8th
November, by the Mary Wilks, at Baltimore.?
They contain no political news whatever. The receipts
o( Hour from the United States were heavy
and sales dull, at prices ranging from 17||000 to
19H000.
Canaoa.?All political affairs have settled down
quietly for a little while. This has been caused by
the dangerous illness of Sir Charles Bagot. As, however,
the health of the Governor General is now improving,
with a strong probability of bis ultimate rePnvprv
! )i?? plpmpnfa will ntroin Ka ?w
motion. Hut we presume that the Governor will
leave for England aa soon as lie is able, and a new
administration, perchance Lord Elliot, be sent out
to control the storm in turbulent Canada.
Court for the Correction of Errors, Dec. 28.
?John Townsend and others vs. Caleb Hubbard
and others. Judgment of the Supreme Court affirmed,
Iff to I. The Chancellor and Senators Kuger
and Scott delivered written opinions for affirmance,
and Senator Dickinson lor reversal. Ambrose
Spencer vs. Barent 1'. Staats. Judgment of the Supreme
Court reversed unanimously?18. The Chancellor
and Senators Bockee and Paige, delivered
written opinions, the Lieut. Goveruor and Senator
Root, verbal opinions Truman Hart, jr. vs. John
Atiudon. Reversed unanimously?17. The Chancellor
and Senator Root delivered written opinions.
Lyman Curtiss vs. Ru?*ell Hubbard?Affirmed, 12
to f> The Lieutenant Governor and Chancellor delivered
written opinions for affirmance, and Senator
Root lor reversal. David B I*rosser, impleaded <fcc.
vs. Francis T. Lequeer and others. Affirmed unanimously?17.
The Chancellor delivered a written
opinion. Nathaniel Satford vs. John Wyokofl'.?
Reversed as follows For reversal, 13? For affirmance,
!l. Senators Bockee, Hopkins and Root, delivered
written opinions, and Senator Dickinson a
verbal opinion for reversal. The Chancellor and
Senator I'aige, delivered written opinions, and the
Lieut. GovernorHn oral opinion for affirmance.?
John Brown vs. The Mohawk and Hudson Railroad
Company. Reversed?17. The Chancellor, Senators
Franklin and Root delivered written opinions,
and the Lieut. Governor, and Senator Bockee oral
opinions for reversal.
The People's Constitution?Some very curious
developments have been the result, in Rhode
Island of careful inquiries into the actual composition
of the vote by which the people's constitution
was alleged to have been adopted in December 1841
?that constitution under which Mr. Dorr claims to
be Governor. At Newport, for instance, it has been
discovered that of the 1202 votes returned as for the
constitution, 231 were given hv unnaturalized foreigners,
52 by U. S soldiers, 5 by minors, and 20 by
jiersons who either were not residents or w ere absent
from Newport at the time of their alleged voting
Eleven persons, moreover, are found to have
voted twice, and it is ascertained that several men
are on the list as having voted, who now declare
that thev did not vote at all. And all this in one
town only.
Hot.* tjAMBi.iNo?At the fair forth'' purpose of
purchasing the Church of Redemption, 1 noticed that
most all the valuable things were put up at rathe,
'l'his suggested the following
Lino on Holt Uimblinu.
What right have you our acta to scant
We're of the Lord and not of man;
We raffle in a holy cause,
Out ye, to fill your needy maws!
80 down,down, real gumhl radown
Our winnings go to build a church,
Or help our brethren ia the lurch,
And though bgaiust our church's crMd
The purpose justifies the deed.
80 down, down, real gambUrsdown.
But you, ye poor and ragged set,
With pockets always to be let;
Ye play against your country's laws,
And have no prayers to help your ca'tae.
So ilnu-n ilnwn real iramhlers down.
New Year's Day Calls.?To-morrow is the 1st
of January?but New Year's day, as the annual
gala-day, will be celebrated in this city on Monday.
To-day, all ladies lay in their slock of cakes and
coffee, wine and walnuts?and on Monday put on
their Ray est attire and sweetest smiles to receive
there visiters. Let it be a gay day.
Theatrical.
The Park.?Mr. W. H. Whilliams' benefit on
Thursday night was indeed a bumber, as thut universal
favorite deserved. In the "Heir at Law"
the beneficiary sustained the excellent character of
Ezekiel Homespun in a very effective and characteristic
style. The sterling honesty, unaffected integrity,
and truthful simplicity of the worthv
'Zekiel were never better pourtrayed. We were
particularly pleased with the scene in which Ezekiel
makes his boisterous demonstrations of joy on
drawing the prize in the lottery, and Mr. Williams
was here much applauded. Mr. Williams, Burton,
and Placide are engaged to play at the Chatham
after the holidays. Mrs. Wheatly and some other
members of the Park company go with them.
Chatham Theatre.?Mr. Forrest's Benefit.?
A grand bill is presented this evening, lor the benefit
of Mr. Forrest. This distinguished gentleman
n|>pears in two of his choicest characters, those of
Claude Melnotte, in the admired play of the " Lady
of Lyons," and Rolla, in the tragedy of "Pizarro.'?
In both of these characters he stands unrivalled,
and sustained as he will be on this occasion, by performers
of no ordinary cast, the plays will doubtless
be received with great enthusiasm by q crowded
audience. Miss Mary Duff, a very superior actress,
ap|>earn as Pauline, in the Lady of Lyons. As there
will be a tremendous rush to-night, those who desire
good seats should secure them at an earl; hour in
the day.
Ohio River.?At Pittsburgh on Monday, the river
had four feet of water in the channel. At Cincinnati
on Saturday there were six feet of water in the
channel, and was falling.
Annuals and Oift Books?Reader, if you retmire
an elegant Annual for presentation in vnnr
lady-love, wend your way to the bookstore of the
Langleys', Chatham, opposite Chambers street, and
our word to you, you wi|l thank us for the suggestion.
Some idea of their choice collection may be
formed from a glance at the costly display of rich
and superb works of art which illuminate their windows;
and which seem to indicate anything but a
want of business enterprise in these "hard times."
We guesst the secret of this?their prices art in accordancewith
the times. We need not say go, but
we do say don't all go at once!
Mr. Editor.?Knowing that in evil must not
be borne in silence in order to be remedied, and
presuming upon your willingness to unite with
myself and others, in the endeavor to obtain a remedy,
1 take upon myself the task of stating, through
the medium of your valuable paper, for the benefit
of whom it may concern, the particular grievance
to which 1 allude, in the no|>e that in future the repetition
of the same may be guarded against.
1 allude to the disap|>ointment I and thousands of
others have experienced while attend ingj hp present
course of lectures before the Mercantile Library
Association, in not having the anticipated pleasure
of hearing those persons lecture whose names have
been duly announced in the piogramme. which the
Association has spared no expense to publish, as an
inducement to the public to attend the course, which
are not given free, but for which all are required to
nay; and of course having paid tor the privilege of
hearing those |iersons lecture, whose names have
hpen uledtred as lecturers, feel in some measure im
posed' upon to have the annoucement repeated
every evening, that "in consequence of numerous
, i-iy ??. Cv uull PU Will 11UI ?(>pear
this evening." In case of sickness any one
would excuse a person; but where an engagement
has been made by one person to thousands, he ought
not to let business be an excuse for not fulfilling a
business exgagement.
It is to be hoped that the Mercantile Library Association
will profit by this suggestion; and if they
do not, this is the last winter that they can impose
upon the present respectable and intelligent audience
and your Subscriber.
Iron Safes.?It is a wellknown fact that those articles
improperly called Safes, made of oak plank
and'covered with sheet iron, are about as unsafe a
receptacle for books and papers in case of fire us
can well be devised.
We yesterday saw the fragments of one of those
miscalled safes, tuken from the ruins of one of
the stores consumed in the conflagration on the
niffht f\i f lin 'Mill inufant flia oah<\f U!~1.
?.n... vs (HVOTM HMMHIt} H(V WHKUIUIVI WUKU won
entirely destroyed. We have goad reason to believe
that these objections will not apply to Wilder's Patent
Salamander Sales, but would recommend to
those who have use for safes to call on Mr. S. C.
Hewing, 139 Water street, and examine the trial
safes and Committee's report, and also avail themselves
as we have done with one of these projierty
preservers.
Holiday Presents.?We call the attention of our
readers to our advertising columns. Read them
from beginning to end?they are interesting at this
season, containing a full collection of holiday presents
of all 1 inds, at all prices?of all sizes?and to
suit every taste
ftj- This is General Tom Thumbs last day at the
American Museum. Extra performances take
place in the Lecture Room at 12 and 3 o'clock,
P. M.
{?7- K.mmit an<! Brower, at the Bowery Amphitheatre,
are drawing immenie audiences to witness their negro
extravaganzas and drolleries. Kmmit's banjo playing is
fully equal to Jo Sweeney's, and tar ahead of any other
now in the United States. The dancing and Carolina
negro characteristics, given by Frank Brower, are quite
original and comic as any thing of the kind ever given in
this city. Master Walter Aymar was complimented on
Wednesday evening with a wreath thrown into the ring,
by a company ot ladies and gentlemen, in the dress circle,
upon which was uiscrilied, "to Wailn Avmar loi ?upe
rior horsemanship." The company, altogether, u the
liest in the Union.
(a- Barnum may uxpect another crowded home to- I
day, as in addition to all his other holiday attractions, it is
the last ap|>earar.cc of General Tom Thumb This interesting,
hamUome, accomplished, and sublimely little gentleman,
has l>een s?-en hy more than ten thoiivnd persons
in this city during the past week, all of whom declare
that he is not only the most wonderful hut the moil dr.
lightlul creature the) ever saw. No one who Inn not
seen him ran form any idea of the strange Is-, in at ion of
seeing and converging ? Ith a human being. * ith tlis age
and jiowers almost ol manhood, yat no larger than an infant
of three months old. The number of visitors w ill compel
the manager to have his extra performances in the saloon
at 1'J and I P. M.
(gf- There will lie a splendid |i?rtormance this afternoon
at 3 o'clock, at the New Vork Museum Nelhs.liorn
without arms, performs a variety of wonderful .eats. J< i kins
the comic deleniator, singer and banjo player , Diamond
the Ethiopian dancer. Young, on the wir- volante
The splendid Ticture gallerv.immense collection of Curiosities
and performances, all to tie seen for one shilling
Children in company with their parents halt pitce.
Bankrupt Islet.
SOUTHERN DISTRICT OK NEW YOR*
Dolerval Shemway, New Yorh, grocer
James C.Johnson, Goahen, Orange county, late merchant
Jeromus Johnson, Ooshen, Orange county, late rueicliant.
William McDonnell, New York, commission merchant.
John Baptiste Fauvel Oouraud, New York.
F.lnathan Underbill, New York, butcher
John A. Laforge, New York.
John G Benson, New York, cartman.
Conklin L Martin, New York, hardware dealer
i
Court of Inquiry on board the North
Carolina.
Third Day?Friday, Dec. 30.
Cointiydation or Commander McKknzik's Narrative?When
on the eve of sailing, two additional
Midshipman came on board which increased
to seven,the number of those who were to occupy a
space capable of accommodating only five. I had
beard that Spencer expressed a wish to be transferred
to the Qrumput, and I said that if he would
make an application to that effect to Com. Perry, I
would second the application to detach him. The
application was made, and I earnestly seconded it
on the ground of the comfort of the young officers.
Commodore Perry declined to detach Spencer, but
expressed his willingness to detach Midshipman M.
H. ltogers, the last ordered on board the Somers.
Put to this 1 could not consent, because I knew hiin
to be an officer in every sense of the word; a gentleman
of high attainments in his profession. The
Somers sailed then with seven in her staerage; they
could not all sit together. The two oldest and most
Hatful hud nn It w?lf r? fn nnf ~ ?- '
slept on the steerage deck, submitting without a
murmur, und performing their duties with i>erfect
satisfaction. I recur to these recollections, Hnd endeavor
to review his conduct. I treated him precisely
like the others. 1 |>erhaps reproved him less.
1 ban, indeed, little hope of essentially serving one,
who had been so great an enemy to himself. Silencer
had very little intercourse wiih the officers, but
was very intimate with the crew. He passed jokes
with them, and it was only on such occasions that
he was observed to smile, and sometimes with a
strange flashing of the eye. These various recollections
added weight to what had been revealed to
me, and determined me at once to make sure of the
person of S|iencer, although Iliad meditated allowing
Mr. Wales another interview with liirn, for the
purpose of discovering more of his plans, as had
been arranged between them. Hut I concluded
that if Spencer was real'y in earnest, there was unite
enough already known. Having assembled all tlm
officers and men, and addressing Spencer, I said, "I
learn that you aspire to the command of the Somers."
With great deference, and smiling, he answered
"No, sir." "Did you not make known to Mr.
Wales a project to kill the commander, officers and
a portion of the crew, and convert this vessel into a
pirate!" "I may have told him so,sir" said he; but
it was in joke." " You admit, then." I returned,
" that you told him so?this, sir, is joking on a dan
gerous subject, ft may cost you your life. Remove
your neck handkerchief." He did so, but no |>aper
was to be found in it. I then asked him what he
had done with the paper which he stated to Mr
Wales that his neck handkerchief cnnlnineit anil
what the paper wag 1 He replied that he "put hi*
day's work there." I Buid that " it was a curious
place to put his dav's work ." " It is a convenient
one," said he, with an air of deference and bland ness.
I then said to him, " You must he aware that
you can accomplish your projects only by passing
over my dead body and the dead bodies of the other
officers. You have given yoursell a great deal to
do, sir. It will be necessary te confine you." I
then ordered Lieut. Gansevoort to arrest hint and
put him in double irons. Lieut. Gansevoort step|>ed
forward and took Spencer's sword, who was then
ordered to sit down in the stern |>ort; he was double
ironed, and for additional security, hand-cufied. I
directed Lieut. Gansevoort to watch him, and gave
him orders to nut Spencer to instant death il he
were detected holding any communication by signs
or otherwise with any of the crew. Spencer was
himself made aware of the nature of these orders. I
also directed Lieut. Gansevoort to see that Spencer
had every necessary comfort his safe keeping would
admit of. In confiding this task to Lieut. Gansevoort,
his known humanity and kindness gave lite
the utmost confidence that it would be properly discharged.
Yet Lieut. Gansevoort, while he was most
solicitous for the comlort of the prisoner, and ministered
to his wants with the tenderness of a woman,
watched hint with an eagle eye, ready at any
time to take his life, if he violated the orders. Mr.
Spencer being ironed, the officers were remanded
to their quarters, the crew and battery inspected, the
ordinary report made, and retreat beaten. That night
the officers of the watch were armedfwith cutlasses
and pistols, Rnd the rounds of both decks made frequently,
to see i( the crew were in their hammocks,
and no suspicious collection ot individuals. On
searching Mr. Spencer's locker, a small razor case,
which, with a razor, he had drawn from the purser,
was found, but instead of the razor, the case contained
a small paper rolled in another. On the inner
paper strange characters were written, which proved
to be Greek, with which Mr. Spencer was familiar.
It fortunately happened that another midshipman
was on board, who understood Greek?one
whose Greek as well as every thing else he possessed
were wholly devoted to his country?midshipman
Rogers, lie translated these characters, and it
was found that they represented the names of the
crew, arranged in different lists?those who were to
be kept, whether they would or not, in separate
rows?those who were to do the work of murder?
those who were to open the arm chest, and those
who were to work the vessel. The following day
k.w,o?ij.7lii?uci> ttctt inspected ai quarters
at 10 o'clock. I took my station abaft, with the intention
of especially marking the aemeanor of
Cromwell and Small. The third division, to which
they belonged, always mustered on the after part of
the quarter deck, being a coutinuaffon of the line
formed by the guns. The condition of Cromwell
and Small was faultlessly clean. They had apparently
determined that their apiiearance in this respect
should elicit no reproof. Cromwell stood up to
his fall height?his battle-axe firmly grasped?his
cheek pale, out his eve fixed indiflerentlv to thp nth.
er side. He hud a determined, dangerous air.?
Small's appearance displayed much uneasiness. lie
shifted his battle-axe from one hand to the other;
his eye waswandering irresolutely,but never towards
me. I attributed his conduct to fear. I have been
since led to believe that the business was repugnant
to his nature; but his love of money and rum was
too much for his fidelity. After quarters the church
was rigged?the crew mustered and' came up with
their prayer books, and took their stations
without waiting tor all hands to be called.
After half past 10 o'clock, the usual time of dinner
service, Lieut. Ciansevoort said all was ready, and
asked me if he should call all hands. Five bells then
struck and all hands were called. The men were
unusually attentive, and the responses more than ordinarily
audible. I carefully inspected the countenances
of the crew, but saw nothing that gave me
distrust. In the afternoon the sky sails and studding-sails
were set. fThe narrative here related how
in the execution by one of the most faithful of the
apprentices, of an order by Capt. McKenaie, a sudden
jerk given to some part of the rigging by Small
and another of the crew, put the life of the apprentice
into extreme jeopardy, and carried away the
top-mast, creating some confusion.] I did not
nream at the time that the carrying away of the
mast was the work of treachery, but 1 knew that it
had endangered the life of a boy, created confusion
and interrupted the regularity of duty, likely to be
taken advantage of by the conspirators, if they were
still bent on the prosecution of their designs. The
greatest care was then taken to prevent confusion;
every thing connected with the wreck was sent
down from aloft, the sails bent af resh, every one employed,
and all things made logo 011 with undeviating
regularity. To my astonishment all those most
conspicuous in the programme of Spencer, no matter
in what part they were stationed, mustered at
the maintopmast head, whether inspired by sudden
zeal for their country or for the opportunity of mutiny.
I'erhaps the plan had not yet been abandon
ed. During this time I remarked that 8pencer gave
many ol those strange and stealthy glances wltich I
have before noticed. The deck being cleared, su|>l?er
was piped, before sending up the new mast. After
sii|>t*r the same pernors mustered at the masthead
as before. 1 he toiasallant was fitted and
ails net. I?v this time it was late and deck and
( tartars were unavoidably dispensed with. Still
I thought it scarcely sale to leave Crninwell at large
during the night?the night was the season of danger.
Alter consulting Lieut. Gansevoort, I determined
to arrrst Cromwell the moment he reached
the deck. I met him at the foot of the Jacob's ladder
I c alled him alter, and asked him relative to the secret
conversation which he had had with Spencer
the night before;he denied it,and said it wasSmall;
inc reased vigilanc e was now enjoined on all the
officers ; henceforward all were properly armed,
and either tnysell or Lieut. Ganesvoort were always
on deck, ancf generally ImiIIi ol us at the same time,
t >n the morning of the following day, the 18th Nov?
nd?er. two crimes n| considerable magnitude were
reported. [We understood that these were thefts ]
They were punished to the extent of the law; McKinlv,
who was down in the programme as "certain"
rejiorted Waltham one of those two offendere,
to the First Lieutenant as having told him where
three bottles of wine could be got, and ollered them
tec McKinley; this wasprobably done by McKinley
lo save himselt from suspicion; Waltham having
thus committed a second offence was put in irons,
to be subjected to a second punishment on the following
day, and I thought it a fit opportunity to
make an impression on the crew. The number of
the conspirators might not be great, hut I had reason
to believe that a majority ol the crew were disaffected
The no-ti afWMMhat had been at work
since nur de|airiure from Jtlew York to corru|?t the
crew, waa now disclosed. Accordingly 1 commenced
by explaining to them the general nature of
Sjcenccj's conspiracy, studiously avoiding to excite
?iiy suspicions that I waa in jiosaeasion of the names
of those implicated. I waa indeed willing that the
worst of them should rejwnt and hide themselves
timing the well-disposed of the crew. 1 endeavored
to turn them trom the picture of successful vice
which Spencer had jwesented to them. I reminded
the in ol those hallowed tie# uf kindred and home
w hich rendered life doubly desirable, and expressed
my hope thai in three weeks we would be again on
hore in onr'own land 1 thanked God that we had
irienda who followed us with aolicituJe and affec
lion, and that to have friends watt an inappreciable
blessing, to be worthy of thetn was the beat proof ot
our affecvion. This had evidently a good effect.
The thoughts cf the dangers they had escat>ed
from those who had intended to cut them off for
ever, indued many of them to weep. I now
thought the crew quite tranquil, and felt more safe.
Having noticed Spencer endeavoring to hold communications
with the crew, I directed his face, and
those of Lis two associates in irons, to be turned aft,
and 1 also forbade any furher supply of tobacco to
them after what they had was exhausted. Spencer
earnestly begged for tobacco, and I replied tiiat he
should have all the comforts his mess had, and that
the seamen should have what was allowed by Government
necessary for the health and comfort, but
that tobacco was only a stimulant, and I wished
them to tranouilize their minds. Soencer's snirits
gave way entirely alter his tobacco was exhausted.
He remained with his face buried in his grtgo, and
when raised it was to be seen bathed in tears. He
was evidently touched by the kind and delicate attentions
of Lieut. Ganesvoort, and said he was not
then sufficiently composed to tell any thing, but
when he was he would tell all, and answer all questions.
On Tuesday, the 29th of November, immediately
after quarter, all hands were called to witness
the punishment qa Henry Walt ham for offering
three bottles of wine to McKinley 1 again
spoke to the crew, mentioning that every punishment
inflicted must be made known to the Secretary
of the Navy, aad that the less punishment on
board, the tnore creditable it would be both to Commander
and crew. Hut the whole crew 1 found
were far from being tranquilized. Seditious words
were heard amongst them, and a menacing air was
assumed by many. Some of the petty officers were
sounded by the first lieutenant, and found to be
true to their colors. Under the impression that
an outbreak was hourly to be exi?ected,from various
intelligence from time to time obtained about conferences
among the disaffected; individuals ut first
not f upi>osed to be deeply implicated were also now
found in close association with those that were, and
liHving iln heard that Mr. Wales detected Charles
A. Wilson attempting to draw out a handspike for
the purpose of felling nun, and when Wales cocked
his pistol, Wilson made a lame excuse for his conduct
and presence there at that moment, I felt more
llinn nwii^llv Hn*inna uml r^rr?o in**A nn At
twelve o'clock several of the crew seriously implicated
missed their muster. That they should have
missed their muster, otherwise than intentionally
w.is impossible. There had probably been some agreement
to do so, and then meet on the deck and
commence some Hct of violence. I heard that
( recn said he could not get aft for want of room
though he was on deck. I immediately went forward
and rejected his excuse and ordered him on
the look out forward for feur hours, directing the
midshipman of the forecastle to watch him closely
?the others were similarly distributed. At 4 o'clock
others of the implicated missed their mustcf. I
could not contemplate this without the most serious
leeling. livery new event seemed to bring forth a
new company of conspirators, and every thing betokened
an indication of an attempt to rescue the
prisoners. What sympathy, I argued, might not be
excited by their imagined sufferings! To all these
considerations were added the solemn responsibility
I w as under to protect and defend the vessel entrusted
to me and the lives of her officers and crew
?to prevent the invasion of the seas traversed by
our peaceful merchantmen, and those of all nations
using the highway of the ocean, from the terrors
contemplated by the conspirators, and above
all to preserve the sanctity of the American
(lag displayed front our mast head, determined
me to adopt some other measures. Hitherto
I had consulted the first lieutenant only, andfound
that his opinions entirely coincided witn my own;
bat 1 whs now desirous to have that of all the other
officers, except the acting midshipmen,who although
they had fully discharged the duty in the late transactions,
were yet so young und inexperienced that I
thought it hard to subject them to the trying duty of
expressing an opinion on the solemn matters which
were now under consideration. I therefore nddrert.
sed the following letter to the other officers under
my command:?
" V. 8. Bmn Bomkrs, 30rn. Nov., 1843.
" Okitlf.mF.M :?
"The time has arrived when I am desirous of availing
my it'll ol your counsel in the responsible ]>osition in which
as commander of this vessel I And mvsalf placed. You are
aware of the circumstances which have resulted in the
cantinement ol Midshipman Philip Spencer, Samuel
Cromwell, boatswain's mate, and Elijah H- Small, seaman,
as prisoners, and I purposely abstain from entering into
any detail of tliem. But aware that the crew have been
tampered with by an officer and knowing that suspicion
attaches to persons still at large, and also the difficulty of
aking care of the prisoners we have already, I have resolved
to ask your united counsel as to the best course to
pursue, and call on you to take into deliberate and dispassionate
consideration the present condition of the vessel
and all contingencies which may possibly arise in the future,
throughout the remainder of our cruise, and counsel
me as to the best course to adopt.
I am,
Very respectfully,
Your most obdt servant,
ALHX SLID ELL McKENZIE.
To Lieutenaut Oansevoort, Assistant Surgeon K. \V.
Lincock, Sailing Master M. C. Perry, Midshipmen Henry
Rogers, Egbert Thompson, C. W. Hayes.
After writing tine letter, but before I had sent it,
the 30th of November han arrived. Wilson having
failed to effect an outbreak in the night, and having
come forward with some lame excuse and confession,
and requested not to be ironed, 1 said that if he
would make a true and full confession he would not
be ironed; but nothing more could be got from him.
I- . :i V- C 1 a C e
111 mn sau-unK wad louna an Airioan Knur M extraordinary
ahape, ahort, rhnrp on both aidea, and tapering
to the point, which could be of no use but to
kill. Thisknite had been the day before aharpened
with a hie; and 111 the same way he had sharpened
his battle-axe. McKinley was now arrested. Hitherto
by his extraordinary coolness and com;>oaure,
he had succeeded in being at large: he undoubtedly
would have risen to the comtnana had the mutiny
been successful. Green I also gent lor and ironed.
Alexander McKie, who was to have taken the
wheel, was also ironed. These individuals were
made to set down as they were taken, and when
they were ironed, 1 walked deliberately round, followed
by First Lieut. Gansevoort, and we afterwards
made a very careful inspection of the crew.
Those thought least dangerous were called out and
interrogated, care being taken not to awaken the
suspicion of such as were really formidable, unless
intended to arrest them. The prisoners now amounted
to seven, and tilling up the quarter-deck, occasioning
great difficulty to keep them strictly apart.and
interfering essentially with tr.e management of the
brig. On receipt ol my letter, the officers immediately
assembled in tne ward-room, andtheexa
mination of witnesses was commenced. The evidence
was accurately recorded, and in addition
to the oath, each witness signed his evidence alter
it had been read to him. The officers passed the
whole day in this investigation, without food or relaxation.
I remained on deck with three midshipmen;
night quarters were dispensed with At nightfall
I divided idlers and all into separate lists, stationed
them on watch, and so obtained at intervals
an hour of repose myself. On the first of December
the first lieutenant presented me with the following
letter in reply to mine:?
" U. S. Bsio SoMim, Dec. 1. 1S4J.
" Sis,?In answer to your letter of yes ten! ay, requestIng
our Counsel a? to the be?t courae to lie pursued with
the nrisoncrs,|Midshipman Philip Spencer; Samuel Cromwell,
boatswain's mate; and Elijah H. Small,seaman; we
would state that the evidence which has come to our
knowledge is of such a nature that after such a dispassionate
and deliberate consideration of the case, as the exigency
of the occasion would admit, we have come to a
cool, decided, and unanimous opinion that they haveliaen
guilty of a full determination to commit a mutiny on board
this vessel of a most atrocious nature. And the revelation
of circumstances having made it necessary
to confine others, the uncertainty of their being
leagued with others, and the imposaihility of guarding
against contingencies which an hour or a day may
bring forth, bring us to the conclusion that it is im|>ossi.
hie to carry those prisoners named in your letter to Ununited
States, and that the safety of the vessel, and o! our
lives, and those committed to our charge, require that
they should tie put to death in the manner best ndapted to
make a suitable impression. This opinion we give, hearing
in mind our duty to God, to our country, and the service.
Wo remain,
Your most obedient servnnts,
UANSEVOORT, Kirnt Lieutenant.
M. C, rERRY, Sailing Master.
R. W. LIN?;OCK, Ass. Surgeon.
HENRY ROGERS, )
EGBERT THOMPSON,.' Midshipmen.
C.W.HAYS, )
1 ut once coincided in this opinion, and resolved
to carry it immediately into effect. There were
two otners implicated almost us much as the three
ringleaders first confined; but they could nol he
kept in confinement without extreme danger. The
three chief conspirators, however, were the only
men capable of navigating the vessel, and by their
removal the motives to capture the brig, and carry
out the original design of piracy, would at once be
taken away. Theirlives 1 regarded as justly forfeited
to tneircountry; they hud basely deserted the
interest of their country, and had disgraced the security
and honor of her flag; and however painful
the sacrifice, it was requisite that they should pay
the |ienaltv of iheir oftirnce. In the necessity of
the case I found my law, and I trust also my justifi
cation. I was at this time disposed to arm the petty
oliscers, but the First Lieutenant differed from ine
ns to the propriety of that step, as from the conversations
of some of them he was disposed to doubt
the prudence of confiding in them. But I made up
my mind that they could he trusted, and determined
to arm them. I accordingly directed the First Lieutenant
to muster them, and I then gave to each of
heni a cutlass, a pistol and cartridge box. I then
dismissed them to their duties, having thus addressed
them?"My lads, yau are to look at me?obey
my orders?and see that they are obeyed by all
otners. Go forward." I made immediate preparations
to hang the three criminals at the yard-arm
All hands were mustered. After-guards and oilers
were stationed at the whip intended for Spencer?
the forecastle men at that of Cromwell, whom he
M
had endeavored to corrupt?tin- maintopmen ofbou
watched at that for Smal , who tor a month before ^
L>ad filled the station ol e iptain of (he maintop. The ^
officers were stationed according to the watch-bill
made out the night before. The petty officera were
stationed at the whips, with orders to cut down any
man who icouid refuse to pull, or icould pull only
with one hand. I then dressed myself in full
uniform, und prepared myself lor the discharge
of the most painful duty ever performed by an American
naval commander. I addressed Spencer, and
told him that it had been his intention to remove
me from the world in the darkness of night, without
a moment's preparation, without an opportunity of
ottering one prayer to God, or murmuring one syllable
of affection for my wife and children. I reminded
him that his life had been justly forfeited,
and that 1 was compiled to take it, but that in doing
so I would not imitate his example. 1 informed
him that if he wished to transmit any message to his
parents or friends that it would be done; and for that
purpose 1 ordered MidshipmanKogersto receive any
statement which Spencer desired to make. Spencer
then sank on his knees, and said he was not fit
to die. 1 said he should Bet the example to his asso
ciates of dying with drcorum. I repeated to him a
portion of Ins catechism, and he then engaged in
prayer- While ao occupied I made the same conversation
to Small and Cromwell Cromwell fell
on his knees and protested his innocence. Spencer
at this moment said that Cromwell was innocent.
1 was staggered at this. I sent for Lieut. Gansevoort,
and returned tOjSpencer. I explained to him
that Cromwell had made use of him?that remarks
had been made resecting him and Small by Cromwell,
that were not very creditable to either Silencer
then expressed great anxiety to hear what those
remarks had been?and 1 then informed him that
Cromwell had said to the 1st Lieut.?"In my opinion
you have a d?d fool on the larboard chest,and a d?d
villain on the starboard." Cromwell had also stated
that he would probably allow Spencer to be his secretary
This information effectually aroused Silencer.
His countenance immediately assumed a demoniacal
expression. Subsequent circumstances too
fully unfolded the guilt of Cromwell. Probably
Spencer had protested Cromwell's ianocence in accordance
with some previous arrangement between
them ; or it may have been that Spencer trusted to
Cromwell for <ui attempt at rescue. He had in the
programme made out an alias for Cromwell. Small
alone, whom we had set down as a poltroon,
received his sentence with composure. When
asked if he had any message to his friends. He said
he had no one but (lis poor mother to eare for him,
and he would rather she would not hear of his
death at all I then turned to Spencer, and again
asked him if he had any message to his friends?
He replied he hud none, but that he died wishing
them every happiness. " I deserve death," he add
ed, " for tnis us well as lor other crimes. My only
fear is that my repentance may be too late." When
! asked htm if he could or would mention any one
whom he had particularly injured, and *hom he
might save from obloquy, ne answered not for
some time, but at last said he "had injured chiefly
his parents, and that his death would kill his poor
mother." 1 was not till then aware that he had a
mother. I then asked him if he would not have
been more guilty had he succeeded in his designs.
He replied that " I do not know what would have
become of me if 1 had succeeded. I fear it may yet
injure my father." 1 replied that it was then too late
to think of that, and told him that if he had succeeded
it would have injured his father much more
?that it would not have been in nature for his father
not to interpose to save him ; and tiuit for those
who hail money and friends in America, there teas no
punishment for the worst of crimes. Perhaps
this is an erroneous opinion, which I could not
justify ; but I must now record faithfully what was
said on this melancholy occasion. I continued that
although I felt the delicacy of my position, yet the
best service, in mv opinion, he could render
to his country and his father, wa? to die.
He then said that he had entertained the same
project on board the John Adams and the Potomac
?he added that he thought it was with him a mania. I
asked him then if it was not a mania that should be
discouraged, and he answered " yes." He asked
me then if I "had not formed an exaggerated idea of
.l.? >< 1 .w< .U?. 1 l.?,l ...,t rw) ,1..., 1
did not know its full extent. I detailed the arts he
had used. He was startled by my telling him that
he had made the wardroom steward steal the brandy.
I told him that it had been obtained at his request,
and that which added to his criminality, that
it had been obtained for the purpose of seducing
others into crime. He then said, " But arc you not
going too far and too fast 1" I replied that he hail
not counselled me in making his arrangements, ami
that his ojitnion of the projnriety and legality of my
conduct could not he regarded as an unpicindicia one.
I added that my course was approved ol by the other
officers. He then said that " he deserved to die ;
it was just." But he objected to the mode of execution
on which I had resolved. He wished, lie said, to
be shot, and asked for an hour to prepare for death.
I made no answer, but he was not hurried, and indeed
he had more than the wished-for hour. He
requested that his face might be covered,
which was readily granted. He was asked
what he wished it covered with, and his locker was
searrhed, when a black handerkerchief, the only
one found was preserved, and with it his face was
covered. Frocttp taken from the bags of Cromwell
and Small were need to cover their faces. Spencer
then asked the irdns to be taken off, but this request
could not be granted of course. He asked for a bible
and prayer-book which were given him. He then
asked me if repentance at that late hour could be
genuine, and 1 referred him to the touching story of
the thief on the cross. Again he kneeled down and
read in his bible. Again he asked me if his late repentance
could be real and acceptable, and I said
that God alone, who was not only all-merciful, but
all-wise, could decide that question. He then begged
mv forgiveness, and I gave him my hand, assuring
him of my sincere forgiveness. I asked him
if he had had any cause to cherish hatred against
me, and he replied "no, no, though there may have
been something in your manner which did not
please inc." He again mentioned that he had entertained
the same idea about effecting a mutiny on
Dnara the John Adams and i'otomac. i asked him
if he wished that to be stated as an excuse for his
conduct, and he replied " No, he wished it only to
be recorded as a fact." The petty officers were
now stationed. Spencer and Cromwell met accidently
in going to take their [places for execution.
There was now no protestation from Spencer as to
the innocence of Cromwell, nor any appeal from
Cromwell to Spencer. Spencer here asked the forgiveness
of Mr Wales, who wasfalmost overcome
with emotion while- Snencer was wholly unmoved.
Mr. Wales said he had his forgiveness from the bottom
of his heart. "Farewell" said Mr. Spencer, and
Mr. Wales sobbing, and causing|others to weep, responded
"farewell." Spencer then passed on. He
asked at this time for Midshipman Rogers, but he
had no orders to leave his station, and I was only
afterwards aware of this fact. At the gangway
Spencer met Small, placed himself in front of him
and extended his hand "Forgive me, Small,"
saiJ he, "for bringing you into this trouble." "No,
by God!" replied Small, "I cannot forgive you."
Spencer related his request, and Small said in a
warrhinir voice "Ah! that is a hard thing to ask
me, Mr. S|iencer. We will soon be before the
view of God and all will soon be known about it."
Sl?*n? er again implored his forgiveness. I then
spoke to Small, who then said with great frankness
and emotion, " 1 do forgive you, Mr. Soencer?may
God Almighty forgive you also." Small then offered
me his hand, and asked my forgiveness 1 asked
him what tempted kim to seek my life 1 felt it necessary
to my future comfort to have every assurance
from his own lips, whether any words had
escaped from me in the impatience and excitement
of duty, as in that case I was equally ready to ask
forgiveness. I had hardly done s|ieaking, when
Small exclaimed?" What have you done to me !
You have done nothing but treated me as a man."
I told liiui that I had high responsibilities to the Government
and the service, that the safety of the vessel,
the security of the crew, and the honor of our
ii..? J i i ? .. ?r i >
im^ucvuivru un mc, iou arr ngni, hhkj rif,
" God blew that flag and prosper it. Nsw, brother
messmates, give me a quirk and easy death !"
Spencer about this time sent lor l^ieut. Ganesvoort,
and said he" might have heard lua courage doubted,
but he wished liirn to know ihat he died like a brave
man." He then aaked what was to be the signal for
the execution. I replied that I intended to hoist the
colors, and that the drum would beat to quartern for
that pur|?ose, a gun being fired at the same time.
He begged that the gun might be the only
signal, and asked |iermisuion to give the
word. This request was granted, and the drum and
fife dispensed with. He asked il there would be no
delay. 1 said that there might be some delay in
getting out a water to fire the gun, but I then ordered
a supply of |ive coals and fresh ones to be continually
in readiness. Small at this moment asked
permission to address the men: I granted his request,
nnd lie thus addressed them:? " Shipmates,
take warning by me. I never was a pirate. I never
killed a man. It was for saying I would do so, that
I depart this life. See what a word will do It
was joining in a Guinea man brought me to this?
beware of a Guinea-man;" and then turning to
Spencer, he said "Are you ready to diel?I am."
Cromwell continued to protest his innorenee. It
had been his aim to appear innocent throughout
?to furnish Spencer with professional ideas, and
bring about u catastrophe of which Spencer was lo
rtke all the risk, and he huii?elt .11 tin- bene
fit. He had taken many procatitions to ai>pear
innocent; but he had not taken enough
I waited for some time to hear the word
given by Spencer, put at length saluted me, and
said that Spencer could not give the word, but
wished the Commander to do so The worn was
then given, and the execution took place. I then
addressed the crew from the trunk on which I had
been .seated, and on which I was then stand
ing. I spoke of the honored parents of the
principal ringleader?of his distinguished fa
her, whose character and talen'e had raised him
to be one of the six of the council of the repreaen