Admiral Russel acquainted the house of commons that he and several persons of quality had been reflected upon in some informations of sir John Fenwick; he therefore desired that he might have an opportunity to justify his own character.

Mr.secretary Trumball produced the papers, which having been read, the commons ordered that sir John Fenwick should be brought to the bar of the house.

There he was exhorted by the speaker to make an ample discovery; which, however, he declined, except with the proviso that he should first receive some security that what he might say should not prejudice himself.

He was ordered to withdraw until they should have deliberated on his request.
Then he was called in again, and the speaker told him that he might deserve the favour of the house by making a full discovery.

He desired he might be indulged with a little time to recollect himself, and promised to obey the command of the house.