.MjEwNg.Mjk0NTc

[page 89] Tuesday, Feb. 8 1881 The Committee met according to adjournment, in the Hall of the House of Representatives, Messir Pattangill, Morrill Hill, Dudley, Goss, Sargent Eaton, and Linscott of the Committee being present, Dr. Butler renewed his motion to put the witnesses under oath. Mr. Hill objected, because he had no doubt that they would as readily tell the truth without the oath as with it Dr. Butler said the investigation was a matter that concerned the whole state, and the testimony would undoubtedly be printed in some form so that the people might know the truth. He hoped the witnesses would be put under oath. Mr. Pattangill: As far as I am concerned I have no objection. I will submit it to the Committee. Mr. O.D. Baker Esq. said he had but just been requested to sit down and listen to the investigation, and knew nothing of what had previously taken place. But so far as the gentlemen against whom charges had been made, he felt out [illegible] idea to say that they had no objection to the witnesses being put under oath, including themselves, if that was the judgement of the Committee. Mr. Pattangill suggested that if either party desired to put a witness under oath that privilege should be accorded the,. Dr. Butler thought this would cause insidious distinctions. Mr. Hill withdrew his objection.