The Works Of The Right Honourable Edmund Burke (volume 13-14)

Synopsis

This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1826. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... Mr. Hastings has now at length taken a ground, as you will see from all his writings, which makes all explanation of his conduct in this business absolutely impossible. For, in the first place, he says, as a prosecution is meditated against me, I will say nothing in explanation of my conduct, because I might disclose my defence, and, by that means, do myself a prejudice. On the other hand, when the prosecution is dropped, as we all know it was dropped in this case, then he has a direct contrary reason, but it serves him just as well. Why, as no prosecution is intended, no defence need be made: so that whether a prosecution is intended, or a prosecution dropped, there is always cause, why Mr. Hastings should not give the Court of Directors the least satisfaction concerning his conduct, notwithstanding, as we shall prove, he has reiteratedly promised, and promised it in the most ample and liberal manner. But, let us see if there be any presumption in his favour to rebut the presumption, which he knew was irresistible, and which by making no defence for his conduct, and stopping the inquiry, must necessarily lie upon him. He reserves his defence, but he promises both defence and explanation. Your Lordships will remark, that there is no where a clear and positive denial of the fact. Promising a defence, I will admit, does not directly rectly and ex vi termini suppose, that a man may not deny the fact, because it is just compatible with the defence, but it does by no means exclude the admission of the fact, because the admission of the fact may be attended with a justification; but, when a man says, that he will explain his conduct with regard to a fact, then he admits that fact, because there can be no explanation of a fact, which has no existence. Therefore, Mr. ...