The Morning Star And Catholic Messenger

Court Of Impeachment.—Mr. Evarts' speech before this Court must have made the most profound impression, judging from published accounts. One is reminded of the scene in Parliament on the occasion of the impeachment of Warren Hastings, when Richard Brinsley Sheridan delivered his memorable speech on the wrongs of the Begum. On that occasion an adjournment was moved and carried, because the members were unable to deliberate calmly—laboring as they did under the powerful influence of his gigantic efforts, and the indignation excited at the wrong received by his client. The effect of his argument against the indictment made the impeachers look wild when he reached the question: "Is the Senate a court?"

Manager Butler disappeared. Other managers looked like poor men on a frolic.

The speaker introduced the opening paragraph of Judge Spencer's speech, acting manager in the impeachment of Mr. Peck, which was a bombshell. Mr. Spencer said no party feeling entered into the consideration—he should scorn himself if he could allow party feeling to influence him upon such an occasion.

Mr. Evarts leaning forward, remarked, "Yes, scorn himself." Mr. Evarts continued commenting on the argument of Manager Butler, that the Senate was not a court, and stepping forward, exclaimed, "if this is not a court, it is a scaffold, and you Senators are headsmen." A feeling of awe ran through the whole chamber and thrilled every hearer. "Ah, Senators, you are told by the Hon. Mr. Butler, that you are not bound to observe your judicial oaths."

"I tell you," said Mr. Evarts, "and I tell you upon high authority, that 'thou shalt not take the name of the Lord, thy God, in vain, for the Lord will not hold him guiltless who taketh his name in vain.'" The effect of this quotation can better be imagined than described. A more solemn scene was never witnessed in court or Senate, and under its influence the Senate adjourned.