It is plain he
would have almost submitted to anything. He offered, in fact,
220,000_l._ to redeem himself from greater suffering. Surely no man
going into rebellion would offer 220,000_l._ of the treasure which would
be so essential to his success; nor would any government that was really
apprehensive of rebellion call upon the suspected person to arm and
discipline two thousand horse. My Lords, it is evident no such
apprehensions were entertained; nor was any such charge made until
punishment had commenced. A vague accusation was then brought forward,
which was answered by a clear and a natural defence, denying some parts
of the charge, evading and apologizing for others, and desiring the
whole to be inquired into. To this request the answer of the
Governor-General was, "That won't do; you shall have no inquiries." And
why? "Because I have arbitrary power, you have no rights, and I can and
will punish you without inquiry." I admit, that, if his will is the law,
he may take [make?] the charge before punishment or the punishment
before the charge, or he may punish without making any charge. If his
will is the law, all I have been saying amounts to nothing. But I have
endeavored to let your Lordships see that in no country upon the earth
is the will of a despot law.
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