The Trial of Burr

With this broadcast, Columbia resumes its prize-winning series, You Are There. Authentic re-enactments of historic events dramatically reported by CBS Newsmen. This is John Bailey in Richmond, Virginia. On this first day of September, 1807, the nation may soon learn whether Aaron Burr, former Vice President of the United States, is acquitted of treason or found guilty and sentenced to death.

This is the 28th day of Colonel Burr's trial here in the 5th District federal court, and the climax is expected in an important legal decision by the presiding judge. The Supreme Court Justice John Marshall is going to rule on the point of law on which may depend Aaron Burr's very life.

Temples are a fever pitch in this trial of city richmen like the entire country is divided between those who believe Colonel Burr is guilty and should hang, and those who are just as convinced that he is innocent.

As we reported yesterday, Judge Marshall will convene this court at noon, a few minutes from now, and rule on the motion by Colonel Burr's attorneys. The defense contends that the whole basis of the government's case is untenable, since it has not been able and has not considered it necessary.

Member, first, the President, 1807, Richmond, Virginia, you Aaron Burr on trial for his life CBS takes you back one hundred forty two years to the event that established a precedent for the American concept of treason all things are as they were then, except for one thing with all the modern facilities of radio present at the trial

and CBS newsmen reporting from the scene you are there you are there is based on authentic historical fact and quotation And now, rich men, September 1st, 1807, a crowded federal court. They've permitted to go on with its case against Colonel Byrd.