St. Paul Daily Globe

ON THE WRONG TRACK.

The anarchists now on trial in Chicago, through their counsel, present a most singular line of defence. According to Mr. Solomon's address on Saturday, they will rest their defence on the broad principle that they are humanitarians and not criminals. Mr. Solomon says these anarchists have not advocated assassination on account of personal feelings against any man, but all their efforts have been put forth with the single object in view of bettering the condition of their fellow men. If Mr. Solomon expects to rest the defence on any such ground as that he will send his clients to the gallows as sure as shot. It is hardly possible that twelve intelligent American citizens can be brought together in one jury box who will give assent to any such infamous doctrine as that. The popular belief in this country is that American citizens can enjoy no better condition than that which gives absolute security to life and property, and he who advocates an opposite doctrine is looked upon as a foe to society and a traitor to the government under which he lives. The attorney who attempts to vindicate anarchism before an American jury is wasting his time and imperiling his clients. The prosecution has made out a very strong case against the Chicago anarchists. The only possible hope for their escape is to break down the state's testimony. They had better stick to that line of defense. For every time they attempt to justify their deeds of assassination they are only adding so many cubits to the heights of the gallows from which they are to be suspended.