“Before I address myself to this audience, I return my sincere thanks to my learned counsel for the exertions they have made, in which they displayed so much talent.  I return my thanks to the gentlemen on the part of the crown, for the accommodation and indulgence I have received during my confinement.  I return my thanks to the gentlemen of the jury, for the patient investigation they have afforded my case; and I return my thanks to the court, for the attention and politeness they have shown me during my trial.  As to my political sentiments, I shall, in as brief a manner as possible (for I do not wish to engross the time of the court), say a few words.  I look back to the last thirteen years of my life, the period with which I have interfered with the transactions of Ireland, with entire satisfaction; though for my share in them I am now about to die—­the gentlemen of the jury having, by their verdict, put the seal of truth on the evidence against me.  Whether, at this time, and the country being situated as it is, it be safe to inflict the punishment of death upon me for the offence I am charged with, I leave to the gentlemen who conduct the prosecution.  My death, perhaps, may be useful in deterring others from following my example.  It may serve, on the other hand, as a memorial to others, and on trying occasions it may inspire them with courage.  I can now say, as far as my judgment enabled me, I acted for the good of my country and of the world.  It may be presumptuous for me to deliver my opinions here as a statesman, but as the government have singled me out as a leader, and given me the appellation of ‘General,’ I am in some degree entitled to do so.  To me it is plain that all things are verging towards a change, when all shall be of one opinion.  In ancient times, we read of great empires having their rise and their fall, and yet do the old governments proceed as if all were immutable.  From the time I could observe and reflect, I perceived that there were two kinds of laws—­the laws of the State and the laws of God—­frequently clashing with each other; by the latter kind, I have always endeavoured to regulate my conduct; but that laws of the former kind do exist in Ireland I believe no one who hears me can deny.  That such laws have existed in former times many and various examples clearly evince.  The Saviour of the world suffered by the Roman laws—­by the same laws His Apostles were put to the torture, and deprived of their lives in His cause.  By my conduct I do not consider that I have incurred any moral guilt.  I have committed no moral evil.  I do not want the many and bright examples of those gone before me; but did I want this encouragement, the recent example of a youthful hero—­a martyr in the cause of liberty—­who has just died for his country, would inspire me.  I have descended into the vale of manhood.  I have learned to estimate the reality and delusions of this world; he was surrounded by everything which could endear