I had hoped the Honorable Solomon Stoddard would be here to address you; but I regret to learn that a temporary illness will prevent his doing so.

I trust that those present will not be backward in expressing their opinions." Mr.Holman was already on his feet.

His speech consisted of disconnected remarks on the general conduct of the war, mingled with severe denunciation of the Administration.
He had spoken for fifteen minutes in this strain, when the chairman interfered---- "Your remarks are out of order, Mr.Holman.They are entirely irrelevant to the question." Holman wiped his cadaverous features with a red silk pocket-handkerchief, and inquired, sarcastically, "Am I to understand that freedom of speech is interdicted in this hall ?" "Freedom of speech is in order," said the chairman calmly, "provided the speaker confines himself to the question under discussion.

You have spoken fifteen minutes without once touching it." "I suppose you want me to praise the Administration," said Holman, evidently thinking that he had demolished the chairman.

He looked around to observe what effect his shot had produced.
"That would be equally out of order," ruled the presiding officer.