§ The Chancellor of the Exchequer moved the usual Sessional orders. On the resolution appointing him chairman of the committee of Ways and Means,
§ Mr. Brogdenobserved, that he had for a considerable period discharged the duties of the office to which he had now been re-appointed, he trusted, with zeal and diligence. Circumstances had occurred since the last session which made him desirous of occupying the attention of the House for a few minutes, in order that he might exculpate himself from the gross imputations which had been cast upon him in the newspapers. Under those aspersions on his character he had suffered greatly. It would be impossible to describe how severely his feelings had been wounded. It had been said, that no person suffered unjustly, at least without some ground; but he was an example to the contrary. In the matter he referred to (the Arigna Mine concern) he had the satisfaction to say, that 150 gentlemen had met at the city of London Tavern, who had completely absolved him and another member of the House from any improper conduct in regard to the company, and had requested him to continue a director. The hon. member added, that he would not descend to minute details in order to rebut the allegations in the newspapers; a proceeding at law would be instituted against one libel. He had received a letter which would abundantly show the conviction entertained of his entire innocence in the affair referred to, and which he proposed to read to the House. The hon. member, however, on searching, found that he had omitted to 91 bring it with him; but he stated the substance of it, which was, that the subscribers absolved Mr. Brogden and Mr. Bent from all corrupt participation in the monies of the company; that the sums particularly specified, which were indeed placed in their hands, were not improperly received by them; and requested that those gentlemen would continue in the direction. Being thus absolved, he trusted that the confidence of the House would not be withdrawn from him. He courted inquiry and publicity. There was nothing he wished so much as to have his conduct fully and completely investigated, and were it not beneath the dignity of that House, he would wish that he might have an opportunity of going before a committee into those details, and producing that evidence, by which he could, beyond the possibility of question, put to shame his accusers.