The New York Packet

LONDON.

After the business of the sessions was finished, Samuel Burt, convicted of forgery, was put to the bar, and informed, that his Majesty, in his Royal clemency, had been graciously pleased to extend his mercy to him, upon condition that he should be transported during his natural life. The prisoner bowed respectfully to the Court, and immediately addressed the Recorder with his "most humble and unfeigned thanks for the kindness and humanity of the Recorder, the Sheriffs, and the other gentlemen who had interested themselves in his favor, and had so effectually represented his unhappy case to the throne; that his Majesty, whose humanity could only be equalled by his love of virtue, had extended his mercy; but however flattering the prospect of preserving life might be to a man in a different situation, yet that he, now that he was sunk and degraded in society, was totally insensible of the blessing. Life was no longer an object with him, as it was utterly impossible that he could be joined in union with the person that was dearer to him than life itself. Under such circumstances, although he was truly sensible of his Majesty's goodness and clemency, yet he must positively decline the terms offered to him; preferring death to the prolongation of a life which could not be otherwise than truly miserable." The whole Court was astonished at his address; and after consultation, Mr. Recorder remanded the prisoner back to the gaol, to be brought up again the first day of next session.