I shall only say further that what relates to them is the only part of my narrative which gave me shame to tell.
I have only a word to add in reference to certain proceedings in the Committee of the Association now made public for the first time.

It may be said, and, I doubt not, will be said, that these were matters which we were morally pledged to keep secret.

I readily admit that, although there was no obligation whatever, either expressed or implied, as to any subject discussed in committee any more than in the public hall, still, I should not disclose any part of its proceedings if I were not compelled by an imperative necessity.

Upon one subject, and that the most important to the character of my illustrious friend, no other proof was available.

And the tacit understanding, in virtue of which I would be disposed to admit any obligation of secrecy, does not and could not extend beyond such matters as would, if divulged, endanger the safety or impair the efficiency of the Association.