_Q._ You mentioned, in response to a question put to you, that you had read an account in the newspapers of the capture of this vessel. _A._ I was not asked that question. I have no mind made up in respect to the subject that would prevent my finding a verdict in accordance with the evidence; but I said I was not entirely devoid of an opinion in regard to the case--that is, the offence. _Q._ Have you read an account of the capture of this vessel? _A._ Yes, sir; I read it at the time. _Q._ Is it from the account, thus read, of the transaction of the capture, that you found this opinion upon? _A._ No, sir; it is not that. It is upon the general subject that I mean to be understood--not in reference to this case particularly. _Q._ Do you say, upon the general question, that you have an opinion? _A._ Well, not fully made up. I have the shadow of an opinion about it. _Q._ Not a fixed opinion? _A._ No, sir; I would be governed by the law and instructions of the Court. _Q._ You are open to the control of your opinion upon the facts and law as developed in the course of the trial? _A._ Certainly, sir. _The Court_: We do not think the objection sustained. Challenged peremptorily by the prisoners. _Samuel Mudget_ called. Challenged for principal cause. _By Mr. Smith_: _Q._ In a capital case, where the evidence is sufficient, in your opinion, to convict the prisoner, have you any conscientious scruples that would prevent your finding a verdict of guilty? _A._ I have not. _By Mr. Larocque_: _Q._ You have read the account of the capture of the privateer Savannah? _A._ Yes, sir; at the time. _Q._ Have you formed or expressed any opinion upon the guilt or innocence of these privateersmen? _A._ I have not. _Q._ Have you formed or expressed an opinion whether the acts charged upon them, if proved, constitute piracy? _A._ No, sir; I have not formed any opinion with regard to the question whether it was piracy or not. Challenged peremptorily by the prisoners. _George H. Hansell_ challenged for principal cause. _Q._ In a capital case, where the evidence is sufficient to convince you that the prisoner was guilty, have you any conscientious scruples that would prevent your finding a verdict of guilty? _A._ No, sir. _By Mr. Larocque_: _Q._ Have you read the account of the capture of the Savannah privateer? _A._ I believe I read the account at the time. I have a very indistinct recollection of it. _Q._ Have you formed or expressed an opinion as to the guilt or innocence of the prisoners? _A._ I do not remember that I have, sir. I certainly do not have any opinion now; and certainly would not have until I have heard the evidence. _Q._ Do you say you do not recollect whether you have formed or expressed any opinion? _A._ I do not remember that I have, sir. I may, on reading the article, have expressed an opinion on it; but I am not positive of that.