I should consider myself undeserving of the confidence that the just and intelligent people imposed upon me in this great responsibility, and unworthy a place among honorable men, if, for any fear of public reprobation, and for the sake of securing popular favor, I should disregard the conviction of my judgment and my conscience. The consequences which may follow, either from conviction or acquittal, are not for me, with my convictions, to consider. The future is in the hands of Him who made and governs the universe, and the fear that He will not govern it wisely and well would not excuse me for a violation of His law. His speeches and the general course of his administration have been as distasteful to me as to any one, and I should consider it the great calamity of the age if the disloyal element, so often encouraged by his measures, should gain political ascendancy. In view of the consequences likely to flow from this day's proceedings, should they result in convictions on what my judgment tells me are insufficient charges and proofs, I tremble for the future of my country.
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