284
WRITINGS OF 5AM HOUSTON, 1856
"without a parallel." Yes, sir; Commodore Shubrick says, that there cannot be found an instance "of more indomitable perse- verance, of more conspicuous bravery, and of sounder judgment." I think the "judgment" in the case was excellent, and I do not wish to detract from it; but he had the cool judgment, either not to go, unfortunately, into danger, or the luck to save all his men and get none of them killed. Therefore, I think that is good judgment, and cool and deliberate courage. [Laughter.] Sir, I have read reports of the battle of New Orleans; I have read of other distinguished battles; I think I have read the reports of the battle of Waterloo; and I believe the first bulletin that came out was not in length equal to this one at San Jose, and fell far short of it in description. [Laughter.] It may be "mod- est," but I only want it understood that when you come to sift and analyze it, it is one of the most extraordinary documents ever published; and I do not wonder that a code of laws, or a system compiled by the author of this report should have been condemned or ignored by the Attorney General, though my friend from Dela- ware thinks it is very clever. [Laughter.] My friend from Delaware says that the indorsement of Com- modore Shubrick is sufficient for him and sufficient for Du Pont. I have nothing to say in relation to Commodore Shubrick further than as a member of that board, and as a public officer. Not knowing him, it is not my business to cast reflections upon him. I have no desire to do it if I could. In all matters I am disposed to treat individuals fairly; to examine into facts, and from those facts to draw such deductions as I feel warranted in doing. If I am not correct in my deductions, I am aware that the sagacity, and the ability, and the analytical power that is to follow me, will riddle me like hot shot. I propose to examine the records of the Navy, and see whether they are sufficient to induce me to rely upon Commodore Shubrick's indorsement. Lieutenant Maury has been reflected on for having asked to be relieved from service on certain vessels in time of peace. I shall show whether or not that was a justification for striking him down, and whether or not the same rule was applied to the members of the board. I understand, however, that their appointment as members of the board precluded ali investigation into their conduct and char- acter. That indorsement ruled out everything like examination or inquiry. Remember, Maury has been reflected on for asking to be relieved from sea service. I wish to read an extract from a letter of Commodore Shubrick, dated the 6th of March, 1847,
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