The committee proceeded for months, from March 22, 1860, to examine ex parte and without any notice to myself into every subject which could possibly affect my character.  Interested and vindictive witnesses were summoned and examined before them; and the first and only information of their testimony which, in almost every instance, I received was obtained from the publication of such portions of it as could injuriously affect myself in the New York journals.  It mattered not that these statements were, so far as I have learned, disproved by the most respectable witnesses who happened to be on the spot.  The telegraph was silent respecting these contradictions.  It was a secret committee in regard to the testimony in my defense, but it was public in regard to all the testimony which could by possibility reflect on my character.  The poison was left to produce its effect upon the public mind, whilst the antidote was carefully withheld.

In their examinations the committee violated the most sacred and honorable confidences existing among men.  Private correspondence, which a truly honorable man would never even entertain a distant thought of divulging, was dragged to light.  Different persons in official and confidential relations with myself, and with whom it was supposed I might have held conversations the revelation of which would do me injury, were examined.  Even members of the Senate and members of my own Cabinet, both my constitutional advisers, were called upon to testify, for the purpose of discovering something, if possible, to my discredit.

The distribution of the patronage of the Government is by far the most disagreeable duty of the President.  Applicants are so numerous and their applications are pressed with such eagerness by their friends, both in and out of Congress, that the selection of one for any desirable office gives offense to many.  Disappointed applicants, removed officers, and those who for any cause, real or imaginary, had become hostile to the Administration presented themselves or were invited by a summons to appear before the committee.  These are the most dangerous witnesses.  Even with the best intentions they are so influenced by prejudice and disappointment that they almost inevitably discolor truth.  They swear to their own version of private conversations with the President without the possibility of contradiction.  His lips are sealed, and he is left at their mercy.  He can not, as a coordinate branch of the Government, appear before a committee of investigation to contradict the oaths of such witnesses.  Every coward knows that he can employ insulting language against the President with impunity, and every false or prejudiced witness can attempt to swear away his character before such a committee without the fear of contradiction.