§ On the motion of Mr. Manning, John Chapman and John Evelyn, who had been committed to Newgate for giving false evidence before the Camelford Election Committee, were brought to the bar, where they received the following Reprimand from Mr. Speaker:—
§ "John Chapman and John Evelyn, you were reported by the Select Committee appointed to try and determine the 1451 merits of the Petition complaining of an Undue Election and Return for the Borough of Camelford, as having given false Evidence;—for this you were both of you committed to the custody of the serjeant at arms attending this House, and after-Wards, by this House, committed to his majesty's gaol of Newgate. You now petition the House to be discharged from farther imprisonment, expressing your deep regret for your misconduct. Much is it to be lamented, that the feelings with which you now state yourselves to be impressed, had not at an earlier period suggested something more of consideration for the fairness of your own characters— and something more of respect for the sacred obligation of that oath, by which you were sworn to speak the truth.—You, John Chapman, plead, in excuse for your misconduct, the inexperience of youth, and your ignorance of the forms of this House;—and you, John Evelyn, offer in explanation something of misapprehension of the purport of the question that was asked of you by the committee;—but these are circumstances which can in no way account for or extenuate the misconduct of either of you. If, however, your repentance and contrition be sincere, your own reflexions will be your bitterest punishment. They will remind you of the disgrace and infamy with which you have branded your own characters; and, at the same time that they mark the striking contrast between the lenity of this House and the enormity of your offence, they will teach you, what I hope you will never forget, that truth and honesty are the only means by which this stain can be removed, and your credit be re-established. I am now to acquaint you, that this House, taking into consideration the petitions that have been received from both of you, has ordered your discharge; and you are both discharged, upon payment of your fees."