Brown. I have not seen the "New York Herald" for some days past; but I presume, from your remark about the gist of the letter, that I should concur with it. I agree with Mr. Smith that moral suasion is hopeless. I don't think the people of the slave States will ever consider the subject of slavery in its true light till some other argument is resorted to than moral suasion.
Vallandigham. Did you expect a general rising of the slaves in case of your success?
Brown. No, sir; nor did I wish it. I expected to gather them up from time to time, and set them free.
Vallandigham. Did you expect to hold possession here till then?
Brown. Well, probably I had quite a different idea. I do not know that I ought to reveal my plans. I am here a prisoner and wounded, because I foolishly allowed myself to be so. You overrate your strength in supposing I could have been taken if I had not allowed it. I was too tardy after commencing the open attack—in delaying my movements through Monday night, and up to the time I was attacked by the Government troops. It was all occasioned by my desire to spare the feelings of my prisoners and their families and the community at large. I had no knowledge of the shooting of the negro Heywood.
Dr. Biggs. Were you in the party at Dr. Kennedy's house?
Brown. I was at the head of that party. I occupied the house to mature my plans. I have not been in Baltimore to purchase caps.