The singular fact presents itself, that while Judge Withers was
deliberating upon the question of granting the "habeas corpus," the
proceedings pending, and the Governor's instructions to the contrary
before him, the sheriff takes it upon himself to smuggle the
prisoner out of port. Now what was the object of this Secret and
concerted movement? Was it "kindness" on the part of that
functionary, who has grasped every pretence to enforce this law? We
think not. The reader will not require any extended comments from us
to explain the motive; yet we witnessed it, and cannot leave it
without a few remarks.
It is well known that it has been the aim of that functionary, whose
"characteristic kindness" has not failed to escape the Governor's
notice, to thwart the consul in all his proceedings. In this
instance, he engaged the services of a "shipping master" as a
pretext, and with him was about to send the man away when his
presence was essential to test his right to the habeas corpus, and
at this very time, more than two months wages, due him from the
owners, lay in the hands of the consul, ready to be paid on his
release.
The nefarious design speaks for itself.
The consul was informed of the proceeding, and very properly refused
to submit to such a violation of authority, intended to annul his
proceedings.
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