The Works of the Right Honourable Edmund Burke, Vol. 11 (of 12)

A historical account written in the late 19th century. This volume primarily focuses on the impeachment trial of Warren Hastings, the former Governor-General of Bengal, detailing the proceedings and legal arguments involved. The text offers insight into the legal and political ramifications of the impeachment, reflecting on the nature of justice in the context of British Parliamentary proceedings. The beginning portion of the work lays the foundational context for the impeachment trial, starting with a report from the Committee of the House of Commons. This committee was tasked with inspecting the Lords' Journals regarding the trial of Hastings, and their findings are meant to illuminate the delays, challenges, and procedural intricacies encountered since the trial's inception in the late 1780s. Burke outlines key issues such as the duration of the trial, the admission of evidence, and the relationship between the Lords and judges regarding legal proceedings. By emphasizing the evolution of legal processes and the importance of preserving parliamentary privileges, Burke sets the stage for a deeper exploration of justice as it pertains to colonial governance and accountability within the British legal framework.