Alexandria Gazette

Case of Hocker.—Every body knows that by "Hockering" the poll books of the Whig county of Lincoln, Mr. R. P. Letcher was deprived of his seat in Congress, for a whole session.—Every body also knows, that the Legislature of Kentucky, at a subsequent session, constituted the act of "Hockering" a poll book, a penitentiary offence; and every body knows that the author of this unpardonable act, was rewarded with the office of Postmaster.

Now it has recently been published, far and wide, that Mr. Postmaster Hocker has "Swartwouted;" that the Sub-Treasurer thus distinguished, has given leg bail, and made the Texas voyage. Such a result would generally be held as in strict keeping with the previous conduct of the individual." It might indeed be said that (unlike the case of the "Federal Demagogue" in a neighboring state, the last end of this man is not quite so bad as the first. Be this, however, as it will, or may—it has been confidently said, that Postmaster Hocker has "Swartwouted," with the funds in his charge. And in reply to this statement, which has gained general circulation, and no doubt, pretty general credence, the Globe says that Hocker has not taken much if any moneys belonging to the department; and the Globe intimates its belief that Hocker has not cut stick at all; —and the Globe, which is a most admirable umpire and judge in all questions of morals, expresses very confidently the opinion, that this "persecuted man," in Hockering the poll book of Lincoln county, and thereby nullifying the election of the Whig candidate to Congress, was merely guilty of an "error of Judgment"—that he meant no harm at all, none in life, in committing this till then, unheard of act; that he merely and simply "erred."

Desiring justice to all, and wrong to none, we of course desire that Mr. Postmaster Hocker should reap the full benefit of this Globe vindication, and Globular expression of opinion upon a point of morals which so nearly effects him, in a former capacity, namely, that of returning officer of Lincoln county. In that capacity, according to the Globe, Sheriff Hocker committed an "error of judgment," doubtless with the best intentions in the world! The Globe may be right in this matter. But if so what should hinder it from an attempt at similar extenuation in the case of its late friends and co-laborers, Swartwout and Price? May not the conduct of these have proceeded from an "error of judgment"? The Globe or the world (convertible terms) may safely say so. Nevertheless, let Mr. Postmaster Hocker. have the full benefit of the Globe's special vindication.—Balt. Pat.