Illinois vs. August Spies et al. trial transcript no. 1
Introduction of evidence, 1886 July 29.
Volume K, 6445-646, 2 p.
Introduction into evidence of articles printed in the Alarm newspaper.
People's Exhibits 49 (vol.K 645), 50 (vol.K 645), 51 (vol.K 645) introduced into evidence.
Counsel for people read in evidence article entitled "Wage slavery" from the Alarm of August 22, 1885, as follows:
Objected to, objection overruled and exception.
(Here insert)
Counsel for people read in evidence article headed "eight hours", and reply to same headed "Our reply" signed "A" from Alarm of September 5, 1885, as follows:
Objected to, objection overruled and exception.
(Here insert)
Same marked People's Ex. 50, contained in volume of exhibits here to attached.
Counsel for People read in evidence article headed "eight hours" from Alarm of October 17th 1885, as follows.
Objected to, objection overruled and exception.
(Here insert)
Same marked People's exhibit 51 contained in volume of exhibits here to contained.
MR. BLACK. The state has already at very considerable length offered evidence as to what took place at that meeting of
October 18th, 1886, and your honor has admitted it. Upon what theory is what purports to be a report of that meeting admissible now? Simply beause it was published in the Alarm? It certainly is not a proper way to contradict any testimony that they have already given.
MR. GRINELL: Would it have been competent if no evidence had been introduced in regard to it?
MR. BLACK: I think not.
MR. GRINELL: It is a report of the speeches.
MR. BLACK: That is not the way to prove speeches.
Mr. GRINELL: It is not for the purpose of contradicting. If it does not contradict so much to your advantage.
MR. BLACK: I object to it in order to get it properly before the court.
THE COURT: Whether this paper was an advocate of what took place at that meeting is a question for the jury; and whether this publication was for the purpose of encouraging what is there recomended is a question for the jury.
MR. BLACK: Your honor admits the article?
THE COURT: Yes.
Defendants counsel then and there excepted to the ruling of the court.
Where upon court adjourned to ten o'clock, July 30th 1886.