Mr. Webster's speech to the jury in the memorable case of John F. Knapp is of a higher interest. The great importance of this case, as well on account of the legal principles involved, as of the depth of the tragedy in real life with which it was connected, has given it a painful celebrity. A detailed history of the case and of the trial, from the pen of the late ingenious and learned Mr. Merrill, will be found prefixed to Mr. Webster's speech, as contained in the fifth volume of this collection. The record of the _causes célèbres_ of no country or age will furnish either a more thrilling narrative, or a forensic effort of greater ability. A passage on the power of conscience will arrest the attention of the reader. There is nothing in the language superior to it. It was unquestionably owing to the legal skill and moral courage with which the case was conducted by Mr. Webster, that one of the foulest crimes ever committed was brought to condign punishment; and the nicest refinements of the law of evidence were made the means of working out the most important practical results. But it is time to return to the chronological series of events. FOOTNOTES [6] 1 New Hampshire Reports, p. 113. [7] American Review, Vol. IX. p. 434. [8] "Crescit enim cum amplitudine rerum vis ingenii, nec quisquam claram et inlustrem orationem efficere potest, nisi qui causam parem invenit." The dialogue _De Oratoribus_, § 37, usually printed with the works of Tacitus. CHAPTER IV. The Convention to revise the Constitution of Massachusetts.--John Adams a Delegate.--Mr. Webster's Share in its Proceedings.--Speeches on Oaths of Office, Basis of Senatorial Representation, and Independence of the Judiciary.--Centennial Anniversary at Plymouth on the 22d of December, 1820.--Discourse delivered by Mr. Webster.--Bunker Hill Monument, and Address by Mr. Webster on the Laying of the Corner-Stone, 17th of June, 1825.--Discourse on the Completion of the Monument, 17th of June, 1843.--Simultaneous Decease of Adams and Jefferson on the 4th of July, 1826.--Eulogy by Mr. Webster in Faneuil Hall.--Address at the Laying of the Corner-Stone of the New Wing of the Capitol.--Remarks on the Patriotic Discourses of Mr. Webster, and on the Character of his Eloquence in Efforts of this Class.