Draft of Ordinance for trial of piracies and felonies committed on high seas: all accused of piracy or felony shall be sent by the governor of the state where brought to the place where the witnesses are for a trial. There shall always be a judge of the admiralty and a majority of the judges shall be a quorum. The judges shall decide where is the most convenient place to hold court. The Attorney Ge neral of the state in question will prosecute piracies and felonies in the same manner as if committed on land. Outline of procedure for the trial and conviction to bring capital punishment. Mercy should be extended, however, where proper. A man cannot be tried twice for the same offence. All goods forfeited on conviction shall be the property of the state in which the conviction made. Also enclosed is a draft of a commission to all governors to enable them to make seizes in piracy cases.
Subjects
United States--History--1783-1865; Jay, John, 1745-1829