An act of mercy may be performed so ungraciously as
to stifle every feeling of gratitude towards its author. Tae 'Merquis of Nonstsxras commuted the sentence passed on the Chartist prisoiiers from death to transportatiim: but, althongh lie knew' that the executi,un of these men was impossible-an atrocity which public opinion. afro. the JUdges' difference of opinion was known, absolutely forbade-yet. in the same letter which ordered the High Sheriff of :Monmouth to re off' the execution front the I st to the ath of February, Lord Nult7.1.0:111: directed that functionary to infant' the prisoners s' distinetly, that the sentence of the law would then be carried into effect.Why give the wretehel convicts this false inawmation If the decision of t.he Judges did not
alter vise, why put off the execution it' it ail. then Wits* tell the prisoners that they would surely be hanger: in live days's It app;ars wanton cruelty.
Then the manner in which the prisoners were taken ont of bed, in the midak of the night. sad berried off without nil opportunity of saying farewell to wives or children. excites a strongfeeling against the neee less harshnees. lanosa is deeerilsed. ns the fether of an affectionate family ; Wismsms too Wa,z a married men : and neeha,dy Jos would. have Leen thanktal for a minute': convert-al ion W jtht a friend. But they were ail bun 11
situ the prieonevan like so ntany bruit:S.
'The opportunity prssemed itself of lita".ing a kiniliy impression on the mites of millions, who. ads:thee wisely or feslishly. sympethize with these political offenders and regard Ilwau as mar. vrs. Very easily might some rather scarce, lint not despicable popularity. have been earned fbr the Queen and the Government. 'Ile coarse nod unfeeling manner in w hich this affeir has been numaged. produces a contrary impression, not eonfinesi to operatives or Chartiets.
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