Mr. Fiske then pathetically stated his opinions concerning the awful consequences which would result from a violation of the laws, and spoke much at large of the parental feeling of government for the remnant of a once mighty and distinguished race.  Wm. Apes replied that the laws ought to be altered without delay; that it was perfectly manifest that they were unconstitutional, and that, even if they were not so, there was nothing in them to authorize the white inhabitants to act as they had done.  Being very anxious to learn what amount of good his brethren might expect, he spoke with an energy that alarmed some of the whites present considerably.  The Hon. Mr. Reed questioned him as to his right to interfere.  He replied that he had obtained it by the adoption of the tribe.

Mr. Reed, if I correctly understood him, answered that the Indians had no right to do such an act; no power to confer such a privilege.  I replied, that if the plantation belonged to them, they undoubtedly had a right to give me leave to dwell upon it.  Many other things he said of which I could not see the reasonableness and propriety, and therefore we could not come to an agreement.

While these things were being done and said, as I have reason to believe, a warrant for my apprehension was put into the hands of the High Sheriff, who, it appeared to me, was not very desirous to execute it.  He approached me, and with some agitation, told me I must go with him to Catuiot; and added, that if I did not accompany him peaceably, he would have out the whole county of Barnstable.  I was not conscious of giving any cause for this perturbation of mind, but I suppose others saw my conduct in a different light.  It is admitted by all that nothing was done contrary to good order, though I admit, that if I had refused to obey the warrant, the Sheriff would not have been able to enforce it.  The fact is I was in no wise unwilling to go with him, or to have my conduct brought to the test of investigation, or to give all the satisfaction that might be required, had it appeared that I had done wrong.  I was also very desirous to have the truth appear, viz. that it was not the intention or wish of the Marshpees to do violence or shed blood.

The Sheriff told me that I should not suffer any injury or injustice, and that I should have a hearing in the presence of my friend, Mr. Fiske.  I went with him very quietly.  The excitement ran very high, and almost all Cotuet was present at my examination.  If wishes could have availed, I doubt not that I should have been ruined forever.  I was arraigned on three charges:  for riot, assault, and trespass; and pleaded NOT GUILTY.