§ The Speakersaid, he had to acquaint the House that the serjeant-at-arms had taken into custody John Stanbury. Mr. Wynn moved "That the order of the House of yesterday, on this subject, be discharged." The clerk then read the order of the House, that an Address be presented to his majesty, praying him to issue his proclamation for the apprehension of John Stanbury. The order was discharged.
§ Mr. Wynnmoved, "That John Stanbury, having absconded in order to avoid being taken into custody, pursuant to the order of the House, be for the said offence committed to his majesty's gaol of Newgate, and that the Speaker do issue his warrants accordingly."
§ Mr. Humethought that, previously to coming to any such resolution, the individual should be called in, and heard, if he had any valid excuse to offer.
§ Mr. Wynnsaid, that a report of an election committee had already declared, that he had absconded to avoid being served with a process to attend as a witness before that committee; and he had again absconded to avoid being taken into custody. There was a precedent for this course in a case that occurred six or seven years ago. If he had any explanation to offer, the regular way would be to do so by petition.
§ Mr. Humesaid, that the evidence on which the warrant was issued was ex parte, and he thought an opportunity ought to be given to explain. He would not, however, press his objection.
The motion was agreed to.