HONOURED SIR, I have little leisure, and less inclination, either to know
or to take notice of those ignorant slanderers who have dared to utter
their "bitter reproaches" in your hearing against me, for having become an
advocate for criminals charged with murder.... Before pouring their
reproaches into the ear of the aged and infirm, if they had been friends,
they would have surely spared a little reflection on the nature of an
attorney's oath and duty....
Let such be told, sir, that these criminals, charged with murder, are not
yet legally proved guilty, and therefore, however criminal, are entitled,
by the laws of God and man, to all legal counsel and aid; that my duty as
a man obliged me to undertake; that my duty as a lawyer strengthened the
obligation.... This and much more might be told with great truth; and I
dare affirm that you and this whole people will one day rejoice that I
became an advocate for the aforesaid "criminals," charged with the murder
of our fellow-citizens.
I never harboured the expectation, nor any great desire, that all men
should speak well of me. To enquire my duty, and to do it, is my aim....
When a plan of conduct is formed with an honest deliberation, neither
murmuring, slander, nor reproaches move.... There are honest men in all
sects,--I wish their approbation;--there are wicked bigots in all
parties,--I abhor them.
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