Court. Where a charge is brought, the parties have a right to be heard by counsel or not, as they choose.
Mr. Mauduit. My lords, I am not a native of that country, as these gentlemen are. I know well Dr. Franklin's abilities, and wish to put the defence of my friends more upon a parity with the attack; he will not therefore wonder that I choose to appear before your lordships with the assistance of counsel. My friends, in their letters to me, have desired (if any proceedings, as they say, should be had upon this address) that they may have a hearing in their own justification, that their innocence may be fully cleared, and their honour vindicated, and have made provision accordingly. I do not think myself at liberty therefore to give up the assistance of my counsel, in defending them against this unjust accusation.
Court. Dr. Franklin may have the assistance of counsel, or go on without it, as he shall choose.
Dr. Franklin. I desire to have counsel.
Court. What time do you want?
Dr. Franklin. Three weeks.
Ordered that the further proceedings be on Saturday 29th instant[128].
To the Printer of the Public Advertiser.[129]