(2).
765
direct action of mine; whilst I was engaged in the execution of my duty. The man fell from the house, and I was arrested and charged with having caused his death.
That charge, as you honourable gentlemen are aware, was withdrawn by the Honourable the Attorney General, but not until I had suffered the shame, anxiety, and humiliation attendant on such a position.
From the day I was charged, to the day appointed by the Government for my trial by jury, I was left absolutely without counsel.
How then was I, being a poor man with a host of Chinese coolies willing to swear anything against me, to act in my own defence?
I did, Sirs, the best I could under the most trying and painful circumstances, and I venture respectfully to ask you honourable gentlemen to accept my statement that if I erred, I did so unintentionally and unknowingly.
I have no further explanation to make.
(sd). J. Mills.