The trial of President Johnson was fixed for Friday, the
13th, but up to the evening of that day no telegram announcing the event bad been published. The country, which at first was excited, has since become perfectly tranquil, gold has fallen 2 per 'cent., and newspapers of all shades seem agreed that Mr. Johnson will be convicted, and sentenced to dismissal. It seems to have been expected that Mr. Johnson would refuse to obey the sum- mons before the Senate, which has accordingly decided that such refusal shall be considered a plea of "Not guilty," and the trial will proceed. Mr. Johnson, on his part, makes little sign, but is reported to be quite easy in his mind,—which is probable, as he knows nothing about public opinion,—and to expect an acquittal. He has since the impeachment, however, given new offence by ordering Adjutant-General L. Thomas, by whom he proposed to supersede Mr. Stanton, to attend Cabinet Councils as Secretary at War. General Thomas,—a weak old gentleman, who amused himself for a day or two by walking into Mr. Stanton's room, asking for the Secretaryship at War, and walking out again,—has obeyed, and gives the President, doubtless, his best advice. It is said that the Republicans everywhere " endorse " the action of Congress, and the elections in New Hampshire, held since impeach- ment, and expected to go against the Republicans, have gone entirely in their favour. Lists of Mr. Wade's Cabinet are being published, but the only certain name is that of Senator Sumner as Secretary of State.
Previous page
