Virginia Free Press

SENTENCE OF DEATH

In the United States District Court Boston. Last week. Henry Joseph a negro and Amos Otis. a white, were tried for the murder of Capt. James Cross, of the brig Juniper, bound from that port to Surinam-the former as principal, and the latter as accessory The murder was perpetrated by the black, and it appeared clear to the jury who tried them that the white countenanced him. and they were accordingly convicted On Saturday they were brought into Court to receive the sentence of the law. when, says the Transcript one of the most solemn scenes took place that we remember ever to have witnessed. In the midst of an immense audience, wrapped in profound silence. His Honor Judge Story called upon the prisoners respectively to say any thing they might wish to say, according to the mild and merciful provisions of justice in our country, previous to the announcement of their fate from the bench. Joseph immediately remarked that he had something to say and then proceeded, with great apparent emotion. and with his countenance bathed in tears, to state, though not with a distinct pronunciation. that this man-pointing to Otis-was perfectly innocent of the murder, and of all connection with it. or knowledge of it -

As for this Otis himself, being allowed to speak. not only reiterated, most solemnly. the cook's declaration.but gave an explicit and remarkably distinct and sensible explanation upon some points of the evidence which had weighed most heavily against him-particularly his expression on the day subsequently to the murder. The Judge, in passing sentence -which. he said, he must do. -observed that the remarks of Otis were "proper for consideration." and that a representation might be made to the Executive in his favor. The execution was appointed for the 21 of December next. between the hours of 9 A.M. and 1 P. M.