Philanthropist

SAD EFFECTS OF INTOXICATION:

On the 3d Inst. the sentence of the law was executed upon James Hunter, at Gettysburg (Pa.) for the murder of Henry Heagy.

The unfortunate convict was resigned and penitent and his execution was conducted with great solemnity and decorum. The evening preceding his execution he made the following confession, for publication:

I, JAMES HUNTER, being by the laws of my country condemned to ignominious death, do this, the evening previous to my expected Execution, solemnly aver the following particular relative to the unfortunate event which has given rise to my present unhappy situation.

Previous to the unfortunate affair I never entertained any ill will or enmity towards Henry Heagy although previously we had been at variance, but all irritation was subsided: and the act which took away his life was entirely unintentional; I can in no way account for it—I knew not at that time what I was doing—it must have been a mad impetuous, thoughtless action I was intoxicated at the time and whenever in that situation am crazed partially deranged; and to that cause it is wholly to be attributed: but I do not plead it in extenuation, because Drunkenness is no apology for crimes perpetrated when under its influence. I never during life, entertained any malevolent disposition towards any human being: but viewed the crime of murder with abhorrence, I always adhered as strictly as in my power to the laws of morality, except occasional intoxication, in which I am sorry to say, I sometimes indulged.

I was educated in the doctrines of Christianity, for the truth, purity, and efficacy of which I have ever cherished the most entire confidence and belief—and on which I now confidently place my hopes of Salvation.

JAMES HUNTER.