We print to-day the speech of
Ben. Wood, of New York, delivered a few weeks since in the
Federal House of Representatives.
It will be perused with intense interest by every one who remembers the gallant position he maintained in defence of the Souther loss after the commencement of hostilities, in the very midst of fanaticism and star-spangled banners, paying no heed to the clamors of the mob, but boldly and fearlessly bearding the lion in his den. The exception which all will take to the speech will be found in his day dreams of a restoration of the
Union; for all such fancies, if they, found a lodgment here, must have been dispelled by the recent rapid development of Federal plans and policy.
The leaders at the
North have torn off the mask with which for a time they sought to cover up their real designs, and now unblushingly proclaim a wanton, cruel, inhuman crusade against the entire
South for the avowed purpose of wresting from us every public privilege and every private right.
Reconstruction is impossible.
Life, liberty, and all are at stake.
But one sentiment now pervades the
Southern heart, and that is, we must and will be free!.
It appears that the abolitionists have determined, since the delivery of the speech which we publish to-day, to crush its author and put an effectual stop to any further public utterance of his sentiments.--We find in the proceedings of the federal House of Representatives, June 11th,the following resolutions offered by
Mr. Bingham, of
Ohio:
Whereas, information has been received by the
Government, that
Hon. Benjamin Wood, representative in Congress from the
State of New York, and a member of this House, has been engaged in communicating, or attempting to communicate, important intelligence to the
Confederate rebels in arms against the
Government of the
United States: Therefore, be it.
Resolved, That the
Committee on the Judiciary inquire into the alleged conduct of said
Benjamin Wood in the premises, and to that end the said Committee be authorized to send for persons and papers and to examine witnesses upon oath or affirmation.
Mr. Bingham said such information had been communicated to him, that
Mr. Wood had furnished, or attempted to furnish, intelligence to the rebels.
Mr. Phelps, of
Missouri, would remind the gentleman that
Mr. Wood was not in his seat.
Mr. Bingham replied that
Mr. Wood was in his seat when he rose.
Mr. Richardson, of
Illinois, would inquire to what Department of Government this information came?
Mr. Bingham replied that it came to all the Departments.
He thought it hypocritical to demand to know of what Department, when the
Government had received it.
Mr. Wadsworth, of
Kentucky, said there was a difference between the accused and the accuser.
Mr. Bingham replied that he made no charge.
Mr. Wood, of New York, had no objection to the adoption of the resolution, but at the same time he desired to have an opportunity to be heard.
The resolution was then adopted.
