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Rh

I am well aware that an assertion of mine own innocence cannot be received for my exculpation, even when I recall to your consideration, that I am the son of an honourable father, who has served the state in the senate and the field, and shed his blood for that service in the only way in which it becomes blood to be shed, that is derived from a source so honourable: that I have been reared under his eye, in rectitude and truth, which has never yet on any occasion been impugned: that love of worldly wealth, the only motive for committing the crime with which I am charged, is a propensity from which I am known to be altogether free. It cannot, I repeat, be received for my exculpation, but may surely, when joined to such considerations, well justify your acceding to my earnest request, that you would grant me three weeks' delay, ere your verdict be pronounced, that I may if possible prove mine innocence. Yes, I request it earnestly; for who, Of woman born, shrinks not from death inflicted Before the gazing eyes of multitudes,— Inflicted with disgrace. I do entreat you, For that I leave behind me those most dear, Who will, if such my punishment, receive A stroke more terrible than headsman's axe, The wretch's momentary bane, can give—